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Iran tests new precision-guided missile which can reach Israel

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Iran yesterday announced that it has tested its first precision-guided ballistic missile, which has the capability of reaching Israel. The move contravenes a United Nations (UN) Security Council resolution.

In a televised news conference, Iran’s Defence Minister Brig. Gen. Hossein Dehqan said that the Emad (pillar) surface to surface missile had been successfully tested. The new rocket has a reported range of just over 1,000 miles and can deliver a 750kg payload to within 500 metres of a target. Iran has developed a large number of home-grown missiles, although until now they have been notoriously inaccurate. The state-affiliated IRNA news agency said that Emad is “capable of scrutinizing the targets and destroying them completely.”

Dehqan commented that “Our leadership and armed forces are determined to increase our power,” although he quickly added “There is no intention of aggression or threats in this action.” UN Security Council Resolution 1929 bans Iran from any ballistic missile development capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using ballistic missile technology. However, Dehqan insisted that “To follow our defence programs, we don’t ask permission from anyone.”

Yesterday’s announcement came as Iran’s parliament voted to approve a bill which will allow the government to implement July’s nuclear deal, which it agreed with the P5+1 powers (US, UK, France, Russia, China and Germany). The agreement will likely see a slowdown in Iran’s nuclear development during the coming ten years in return for lifting international sanctions. However, yesterday’s motion states that “The government should stop its voluntary co-operation in implementation of the deal if the other side fails to remain committed to lifting sanctions.” The nuclear accord does not address Iran’s ballistic missile development, nor its regional ambitions including threats towards Israel.

Iran’s increasing regional role was underscored yesterday by a huge public funeral in Tehran for senior Revolutionary Guard commander Gen. Hossein Hamedani, who was killed last week by ISIS fighters near the Syrian city of Aleppo. Iran is providing significant material support for the Assad regime.