Iranian Missile Test-Launch Hyped By State Media
Among the latest Iranian missiles, which were test-fired recently, included one intended to destroy all kinds of military equipment, according the Iranian Defense Ministry. The long-range ballistic missile is capable of carrying multiple warheads, according to the Fars news agency of Iran.
Brig. Gen. Hossein Dehqan, defense minister of Iran, said the missile is capable of evading anti-missile defense systems of its enemies and can destroy multiple and massive targets.
Officials in the United States indicated that it was closely observing the situation.
Admiral John Kirby, spokesman for the Pentagon, indicated that the Iranian missile program remains a threat in the region, and the agency is closely monitoring the developments.
Kirby indicated that the UN Security Council Resolution 1929 does not allow Iran to undertake any activities linked to ballistic missiles with the capability of carrying nuclear weapons. The resolution also prohibits launches that utilize ballistic missile technology.
The test-firing of Iran follows reports of Iranian warship heading toward the coastal borders of the United States. Fars indicated that the plan of sending the military fleet of Iran is in response to the increased naval presence of the US in the Persian Gulf.
The timing of the Iranian missile test is significant since it comes at the eve of the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in 1979. The revolution marked the end of the Western-backed Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi monarchy and the start of the Islamic republic.
President Hassan Rouhani of Iran delivered a speech on Tuesday to commemorate the revolution while criticizing the United States. Rouhani said the revolution began because the people did not accept humiliation. He also asked if the nation will accept humiliation by other countries thirty-five years after the revolution.
Rouhani added that it appeared that the nation of Iran was not recognized by foreign powers. He also said foreign powers have no knowledge or understanding of the people of Iran.
The Iranian missile text-fire and voyage of the Iranian navy is apparently aimed at making a PR splash for the country.