In a decisive statement reflecting Tehran's military doctrine, the Iranian Foreign Ministry affirmed that the country's missile capabilities are designed solely for self-defense and deterring external threats, emphasizing that this issue is outside the scope of any current or future diplomatic negotiations. This declaration comes at a sensitive time, marked by escalating tensions in the Middle East and increasing Western and Israeli pressure to curtail Iran's military arsenal.
Tehran's message: Deterrence is not up for debate
During his weekly press conference in Tehran, Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei stated that “Iran’s missile program is designed to defend Iranian territory and protect national sovereignty.” Baghaei categorically clarified that these capabilities, which Tehran considers the backbone of its defense strategy, are not up for discussion with any international party, adding: “Defensive capabilities designed to deter any aggressor cannot be part of any political deal.”.
Historical and strategic context
To understand Iran’s unwavering commitment to its missile program, one must examine the historical context that shaped the Islamic Republic’s military doctrine. This determination stems largely from the experience of the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, during which Iranian cities were subjected to intense missile bombardment while Tehran was unable to retaliate or acquire spare parts for its air force due to sanctions. Since then, Iran has focused its strategy on developing domestically produced ballistic and cruise missiles to compensate for its lack of conventional air power and to create a balance of terror that would deter any direct military attack against it.
American concerns and the options available
On the other hand, the United States and its allies, particularly Israel, view this development with suspicion. Washington accuses Tehran of destabilizing the Middle East with its missile program, especially given the range of these missiles, which can reach American bases and deep into Israeli territory. In this context, NBC News quoted informed sources as saying that American officials are increasingly concerned about the expansion of this program.
Reports indicate that decision-making circles in Washington are considering multiple options for dealing with this issue. The network stated that officials are preparing to brief President Donald Trump on the “available options,” which may include new pressure strategies or even military options to undermine Iranian capabilities, signaling a new phase of tension between the two sides.
Regional and international impacts
The impact of this issue extends beyond bilateral relations between Tehran and Washington, casting a shadow over regional security as a whole. European countries consider the missile program a major obstacle to reviving the nuclear agreement or reaching broader economic understandings. While Iran insists on the legitimacy of its defense, the international community sees a need for controls to prevent an arms race in the region, making the missile issue one of the most complex files in the current geopolitical landscape.
