Jeb Bush, former governor of Florida and chairman of United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI), has voiced alarm regarding Iran's alleged delivery of approximately 300 Shahed kamikaze drones to Cuba. Bush stated Wednesday that these weapons, capable of reaching the U.S. mainland, represent a significant security threat.
The Shahed drones have a reported range of up to 1,500 miles and can carry payloads of up to 110 pounds of explosives. They have been noted for their effectiveness in attacks despite being relatively inexpensive to produce. Their presence in Cuba, located just about 90 miles from Florida, places the U.S. within striking distance.
"Iran has been a consistent threat to the united security interests of our country, certainly of Israel," Bush said during a UANI event. He further noted press reports indicating the presence of 300 such drones in Cuba. Iran previously supplied similar drones to Russia for its conflict in Ukraine, where countermeasures have since been developed.
Bush acknowledged that the U.S. possesses robust defense capabilities but cautioned that drone clusters can overwhelm sophisticated defense systems. He described the Iranian-made drones as one of the deadliest battlefield threats to U.S. forces in recent history, citing them as responsible for more U.S. military loss of life than any single weapon over the past 15 years.
Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.), also speaking at the UANI event, echoed Bush's concerns, emphasizing that these drones could reach Florida in minutes. Gimenez highlighted the evolving nature of warfare, noting that artificial intelligence is enhancing such threats. He added that the drones, capable of speeds up to 115 miles per hour, could target the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay and cities in the southeastern U.S., including Atlanta.
The warning comes amid internal turmoil in Cuba. The island nation has faced an energy crisis following a U.S. oil blockade imposed earlier this year. In response, Cuba has undertaken economic reforms, including privatizing state-run companies and opening sectors to foreign investment. The country has also experienced protests and nationwide power blackouts, its third major one this year.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has pledged "impregnable resistance" against U.S. pressure, while former President Trump has called for deep reforms in Cuba. Bush also commended the Trump administration's efforts to diminish Iran's regional influence, stating that an estimated 80% of Iran's capabilities in building such devices and missiles, along with its navy, have been degraded.