Iran on Wednesday said it was ready for any new Israeli attack, announcing that it had developed missiles with greater capabilities than those used in the recent 12-day war.
“The missiles used in the 12-day war were developed a few years ago,” Defense Minister Aziz Nasserzadeh was quoted as saying by the official IRNA news agency. “Today, we have more capable missiles than the previous ones, and if the Zionist enemy launches an attack again, we will definitely use them.”
The war escalated in mid-June after Israel launched a bombing campaign against Iran. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks. The Israeli attack killed hundreds of people, including senior military commanders and nuclear scientists. The attacks targeted both military bases and residential areas.
The United States also briefly engaged in the war by attacking Iranian nuclear facilities. A ceasefire has been in place between Iran and Israel since June 24. But Iranian officials have warned that the next phase of hostilities could begin at any moment, making it clear that Tehran is not seeking war but is prepared for any conflict.
On Monday, First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref said Iran must be “ready for confrontation at all times.” “We are not in a ceasefire; we are in a state of cessation of hostilities,” he said. Iranian media reported that the military would begin two days of military exercises on Thursday. They will include a wide range of short- and medium-range cruise missiles. Western countries have repeatedly expressed concern about Iran’s missile program, calling it a threat to regional security.
In July, France called for a “comprehensive agreement” with Tehran that would cover not only its nuclear program but also its missile program and regional ambitions. But Iran has refused to put its military capabilities up for negotiation, insisting that they are part of its defense rights. RSS/AFP
