(Web News):Iran carried out missile drills in multiple cities on Monday, including Tehran, Isfahan, and Mashhad, according to Iranian state media and semi-official outlets such as Nournews. Videos purportedly showing missile launches were shared online, though their authenticity could not be independently verified by Reuters.
Iran maintains that its missile program is defensive in nature, aimed at deterring potential attacks. “Iran’s missile programme was developed to defend Iran’s territory, not for negotiation,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said. He emphasized that Iran’s arsenal is not open for debate.
Israel views Iran’s ballistic missiles and nuclear program as major threats. During the 12-day conflict between the two countries in June, Israel struck military sites, nuclear facilities, and residential areas, killing over 1,000 people. Iran responded with dozens of missile and drone attacks on Israeli cities, resulting in 28 fatalities.
US media report that Israel is concerned Iran may be rebuilding and expanding its missile production following the war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet US President Donald Trump later this month to discuss potential joint or assisted military options.
Iran developed its missile capabilities domestically after the 1979 Islamic Revolution ended arms imports from the United States, establishing an independent weapons industry.
