TEHRAN, Iran (Chatnewstv.com) — Iran said Wednesday it is prepared for any new Israeli attack, unveiling missiles with greater capabilities than those deployed during their recent 12-day war.
“The missiles used in the 12-day war were manufactured a few years ago,” Defense Minister Aziz Nassirzadeh was quoted as saying by the official IRNA news agency.
“Today, we have manufactured and possess missiles with far greater capabilities than previous missiles, and if the Zionist enemy embarks on the adventure again, we will undoubtedly use them.”
The remarks come weeks after Israel launched a mid-June bombing campaign against Iran, killing senior military commanders, nuclear scientists and hundreds of others, striking both military facilities and residential areas. Tehran retaliated with missile and drone strikes, while the United States briefly joined the fighting with strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
A fragile ceasefire has been in place since June 24, though Iranian officials warn it could collapse at any moment. First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref said earlier this week that Iran must be “prepared at every moment for confrontation,” adding, “We are not even in a ceasefire; we are in a cessation of hostilities.”
Iranian media reported the army will begin a two-day military exercise Thursday featuring a wide range of short- and medium-range cruise missiles.
Western governments have long voiced concern over Iran’s missile program, calling it a threat to regional security. France last month urged a “comprehensive deal” with Tehran to address not only its nuclear program but also its missile development and regional ambitions. Iran has insisted its military capabilities are not up for negotiation.
