Iran's missile test escalates tensions in nuclear talks
Iran conducted a test of a modern ballistic missile with a range of approximately 1,200 kilometres, which was immediately met with concern from the international community. This move has heightened the already tense atmosphere in negotiations with the United States.
Key Information
- Iran tested a new ballistic missile with a range of 1,200 kilometres.
- The test took place in the context of difficult US-Iran talks regarding the nuclear programme.
- The Iranian defence minister warned of possible consequences in the event of aggression from the US or Israel.
Iran conducted a test of a new ballistic missile with a range of 1,200 kilometres. This information was reported by the American "Newsweek," citing Iranian state television. The rocket test took place on 17 April, and its announcement coincided with the challenging US-Iran talks on the nuclear programme.
The Iranian defence minister, Aziz Nasirzadeh, announced that the new missile, named Qassem Basir, is powered by solid fuel and equipped with a guidance system using thermal imaging. This allows it to strike targets with high precision, making it difficult to destroy by air defence systems like the American THAAD and Patriot.
Iran's new ballistic missile
Nasirzadeh criticised the United States for sending contradictory signals regarding the nuclear programme negotiations. He warned that in the event of military aggression from the US or Israel, Iran would attack the bases and personnel of those countries. He emphasised that Iran has never started a war and does not intend to do so in the future.
The missile test was announced just after the Houthi rebels from Yemen attacked Israel's Ben Gurion Airport. Although the Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, Israel accused Iran of its organisation. Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, announced severe retaliation. Nasirzadeh rejected these accusations, claiming that Tehran does not control the actions of the rebels.
The fourth round of US-Iran talks on the nuclear programme, scheduled for 3 May in Rome, has been postponed. This likely happened at the request of the Omani foreign minister, who is mediating the negotiations.
