Iran lifts missile-range limit, vows new strikes as US task force targets supply routes

Iran has lifted its self-imposed 2,000-kilometer ballistic missile-range limit and threatened new weapons that would "astonish the entire world," hours after the U.S. military launched a task force targeting Tehran's weapons shipments and illicit trade on Nov. 7. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Hossein Mohebbi confirmed the removal of the range restriction, which previously placed the Arabian Peninsula, Levant, most of Egypt, and parts of Greece within reach. U.S. Central Command established "Task Force Iron Gate" to target advanced Iranian weapons systems, dual-use materials, and illicit revenue across land borders and the Caspian Sea, with Adm. Brad Cooper saying it will "constrain Iran's ability to finance terrorism." Mohebbi warned of "surprises" in a future conflict and said Iran is preparing underground "missile cities" to shield production. The U.S. has pressed Iraq to close most border crossings with Iran, though Baghdad has closed only one so far, reflecting efforts to balance ties with Washington against Iranian-backed political factions.