Iran Dismisses Missile Talks, Calls Program Defensive

The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the country's missile program has been developed solely for the defense of Iran's territorial integrity and is not open to negotiation.

During his weekly press briefing on Monday morning, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei reviewed recent developments concerning Iran and the broader region, The Caspian Post reports, citing Iranian media.

On missile program

Baghaei said Iran’s missile program was developed to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and therefore should not be subject to negotiations.

“Iran’s missile program has been developed to defend the country, not for negotiation,” Baghaei said. “The defensive capabilities of Iran, which are designed to deter any aggressor from contemplating an attack on Iran, are not a matter for discussion.”

Baghaei criticized what he described as contradictory approaches by Western countries, saying Iran’s defensive missile program is portrayed as a threat while, at the same time, large volumes of advanced weaponry are supplied to Israel.

Iran’s defensive missile program is presented as a threat by hostile actors, while, on the other hand, weapons of mass destruction is being sent to the Zionist regime, he said. “This is a clear contradiction and an obvious moral failure, for which the United States and countries supporting the Israeli regime must be held accountable.”

The spokesman also stressed the readiness of Iran’s armed forces, saying they are fully capable of defending the country whenever necessary.

“Our armed forces know very well how to defend themselves whenever required,” Baghaei said. “Regardless of malicious media campaigns, the Iranian nation and all pillars of governance will remain focused on their responsibilities and continue their work.”