Iran: Missile program is defensive and non-negotiable
In a new escalation of the official stance towards Western pressure, the Iranian Foreign Ministry categorically affirmed that Tehran’s military capabilities, specifically the Iranian missile program , fall within the framework of the country’s defense doctrine, stressing that this system is not a subject open to discussion or compromise at international negotiating tables.
This stance was expressed by Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei during his weekly press conference in Tehran, where he explained that the design and development of Iranian missiles were based on precise calculations aimed solely at defending Iranian territory and protecting national sovereignty. Baghaei indicated that these capabilities were designed to be an effective deterrent against any potential external threats, stating: “Iran’s defensive capabilities, designed to deter any aggressor, are not up for discussion and will never be part of any political deal.”.
Strategic context and regional tensions
This statement comes at a time of unprecedented tensions in the Middle East, as Western powers and Israel view with concern the rapid development of Iranian ballistic missile technology. This issue has long been a major point of contention between Tehran and the international community. While Iran insists on its legitimate right to possess conventional defense capabilities in the absence of modern air cover compared to its adversaries, the United States and Israel consider these missiles a direct threat to regional security and a destabilizing force in the region.
Security reports indicate that the range of Iranian missiles covers vast areas of the Middle East, including Israel and US bases in the region, making them a strategic bargaining chip for Tehran. This geopolitical reality constantly pushes Washington to try to include the missile issue in any nuclear or political negotiations, something Tehran categorically rejects, considering its national security a red line.
American concerns and potential military options
On the other hand, concerns are growing in Washington about Tehran's continued expansion of its arsenal. According to a report published by NBC News, US officials are closely monitoring the expansion of Iran's missile program with increasing anxiety. The network quoted informed sources as saying that there are moves within US decision-making circles to prepare intelligence and military reports aimed at informing President Donald Trump of the "available options" for dealing with this issue, including options for launching new attacks or tightening sanctions to undermine Iran's capabilities.
This ongoing tension presents the region with open scenarios, as Iran seeks to establish a deterrence equation by showcasing its missile capabilities, while the United States and its allies attempt to contain this influence through diplomatic pressure and the threat of military action, thus keeping the Iranian missile issue one of the most complex and dangerous files in the current international landscape.
