Photo: illustration by TimeUkraineIsrael.
Iran has fired an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear payload, TimeUkraineIsrael reports citing Cursorinfo. This is the first time such a weapon has been launched since the beginning of the current escalation, which seriously changes the balance of power in the region. According to eyewitnesses on social media, the missile’s flight over the northeastern regions of Iran was caught on video, causing a resonance and concern of the international community. Subsequently, Iranian MP Ahmad Nadri confirmed this information, stating: “Our path of developing defensive missiles remains unshakable”.
Potential and Threats of Iran’s New Weapons
Analysts suggest that this intercontinental ballistic missile is designed to hit targets at a considerable distance, exceeding 5,500 kilometres, which significantly expands the potential of Iran’s missile arsenal. Increasing the range of this missile gives Iran the ability to reach targets far beyond the region, which is a matter of serious concern among its neighbours, in particular Israel, as well as the international community.
Significantly, according to Nadri, this event is a milestone in the deterrence strategy, and the MP even called for an official nuclear test to maximise Iran’s military power. However, this step has raised serious doubts about Tehran’s compliance with its promises regarding the peaceful nature of its nuclear programme.
Deterioration of control over Iran’s nuclear programme
Saudi media outlet Al-Hadath notes that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) no longer has access to Iranian nuclear facilities: surveillance cameras are disabled and inspectors face significant restrictions. At the same time, Iran continues to increase uranium enrichment to 60%, which is far beyond the needs for peaceful use.
The Iranian parliament is also raising the temperature: 39 deputies sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council calling for a review of the country’s military doctrine and considering the possibility of producing nuclear weapons.
This escalation indicates a significant strengthening of Iran’s positions in the international arena, which threatens the balance of power in the region and causes serious concern around the world.
