Iran Says Missile Programme Is Defensive, Not Open to Negotiation

Tehran: Iran on Monday insisted that its missile programme is purely defensive in nature and aimed at deterring potential attacks, stressing that the existence of its missile arsenal is not open to negotiation.

Speaking at a weekly press conference, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Iran’s missile programme was developed solely to protect the country’s territory. “Iran’s missile programme was designed to defend Iran, not for negotiation,” he said, adding that the country’s defense capabilities were meant to discourage aggressors from considering any attack on Iran.

Israel has repeatedly described Iran’s ballistic missile programme and nuclear activities as major threats. During the 12-day war between the two sides in June, Israel cited these concerns as justification for its military actions.

Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities place Israel within striking range. After Israel launched unprecedented attacks in June, Tehran responded with waves of missiles and drones targeting Israeli cities.

Read more: Israeli Army Chief Vows Strikes Against Enemies, Blames Iran

According to a report by US broadcaster NBC, Israel is increasingly concerned that Iran is rebuilding and expanding its missile production capabilities following the war. The report suggested that Israel may consider further military action to prevent such developments.

NBC also reported that during an upcoming visit to the United States later this month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to present US President Donald Trump with options for possible American involvement or support in any future military operations against Iran.

During the recent conflict, Israel carried out strikes on Iranian military installations, nuclear facilities, and residential areas, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,000 people. Israel, meanwhile, reported that over 50 Iranian missile strikes hit its territory, killing 28 people.

The United States briefly joined Israel in striking Iran’s nuclear facilities before a ceasefire was declared.

Iran, which once relied heavily on US-supplied weaponry, began developing its own domestic arms industry after diplomatic ties with Washington were severed following the 1979 Islamic Revolution.