Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has asserted its "peak readiness" and significantly increased its missile stockpiles, according to statements from IRGC Aerospace Commander Majid Mousavi, widely reported by Iranian state media. This declaration was picked up by major international news agencies, including Reuters, on January 14, 2026. Mousavi's comments highlighted that the IRGC's missile inventory has grown since a 12-day conflict with Israel in June 2025, and that wartime damages have been fully repaired, with output in various aerospace areas now exceeding pre-June 2025 levels. These announcements emerge during a period of heightened internal unrest, characterized by anti-government protests across Iran, and external pressures, including threats of intervention from US President Donald Trump. Iran has also issued warnings to regional countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Turkey, stating that US military bases in their territories would be targeted if the United States launches an attack on Iran. Such pronouncements underscore Tehran's resolve to maintain and enhance its defensive capabilities amidst a complex geopolitical landscape, marked by domestic challenges and persistent regional tensions, particularly with the United States and Israel. The Iranian government views these external threats as attempts to destabilize the country and attributes the ongoing protests to foreign plots.