(Adnkronos) – Iran reiterates that its missile program has defensive purposes and serves to deter any attacks, specifying that the existence of its arsenal cannot be subject to discussion. “Iran’s missile program was developed to defend Iranian territory, not to negotiate,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei during his usual weekly press conference. “Therefore,” he added, “Iran’s defensive capabilities, designed to deter any aggressor from attacking the country, are not a matter that can be discussed.”
During the 12-day war fought in June, Israel had identified the Iranian missile and nuclear programs as the two main threats to be neutralized. In response to Israeli attacks, Iran had launched waves of missiles and drones.
According to US TV network NBC, Israel is increasingly concerned that Iran is seeking to rebuild and expand its missile production and could be planning new attacks to limit these efforts. During his planned visit to the United States by the end of the month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to “present (to President Donald Trump, ed.) options for the US to participate in or provide support for any new military operations,” an anonymous source with direct knowledge of the plans and former US officials briefed on the matter told the broadcaster.
