Iran threatens to use new missiles
Follow-up
Iran confirmed on Wednesday that it is prepared for any new Israeli attack, announcing that it has developed missiles with capabilities greater than those used in the recent 12-day conflict initiated by Israel.
Defense Minister Azizi Nasirzadeh, according to the official news agency IRNA, stated that “the missiles used in the 12-day war were produced by the Ministry of Defense years ago.” He added, “Today, we have manufactured and possess missiles with capabilities exceeding the previous ones, and if the Zionist enemy makes another adventure, we will definitely use these missiles.”
Israel began bombing Iran in mid-June, igniting a war in which Iran retaliated with missile strikes and drones.
The Israeli attacks resulted in the death of senior military leaders, nuclear scientists, and hundreds of others as both military sites and residential areas were targeted.
The United States also carried out strikes targeting Iranian nuclear sites.
A ceasefire between Iran and Israel has been in effect since June 24.
Since then, Iranian officials have warned of the possibility of renewed hostilities at any moment, asserting that Tehran is not seeking war but is prepared for any confrontation.
On Monday, Iranian Vice President Mohammad-Reza Aref confirmed that Iran must be “ready for confrontation at any moment,” adding, “We are not under a ceasefire; we are in a state of cessation of hostilities.”
Iranian media reported that the military will commence two days of military maneuvers on Thursday, during which a wide range of short and medium-range cruise missiles will be used.
Western governments have repeatedly expressed concern regarding Iran’s missile program, describing it as a threat to regional security.
In July, France called for a “comprehensive agreement” with Tehran that would address not only its nuclear program but also its missile program and regional ambitions.
Iran, for its part, has emphasized that its military capabilities are not open for negotiation.
