London, Paris, Berlin – January 26, 2024 — The United Kingdom, France, and Germany have issued a joint statement expressing condemnation over Iran’s recent satellite launch of the Soraya satellite using the Ghaem-100 Space Launch Vehicle (SLV) on January 20, 2024.
The joint statement reads:
“On 20 January, Iran announced the launch of the Soraya satellite using the Ghaem-100 Space Launch Vehicle (SLV). We condemn this launch, as this SLV uses technology essential for the development of a long-range ballistic missile system. Iran continues to develop its missile programme despite repeated international calls to halt it, and after years of disregarding UN restrictions.
“Launches such as these allow Iran to test technology that could be used to further develop its ballistic missile programme, which poses a significant threat to regional and international security. We have longstanding concerns over Iran’s activity related to ballistic missile technologies that are capable of delivering nuclear weapons. These concerns are reinforced by Iran’s continued nuclear escalation beyond all credible civilian justification.
“The governments of France, Germany and the United Kingdom remain committed to taking every diplomatic step to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons and to hold Iran to account for its destabilising activity in the region and internationally.”
This joint statement underscores the shared concern among the European nations regarding Iran’s missile development activities and its potential impact on regional and global stability. The three countries emphasize their commitment to diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and holding the nation accountable for actions perceived as destabilizing in both the regional and international contexts.
