Iran has likely carried out a secret missile test at its Imam Khomeini Spaceport, according to satellite images reviewed by the Associated Press. The photos, released on Thursday, suggest Tehran is continuing its weapons program despite the 12-day war with Israel in June.
Although Iran has not officially confirmed the launch, the test seems to have taken place last week at a circular pad often used for the country’s civilian space missions. One Iranian lawmaker even claimed, without evidence, that the launch might have involved an intercontinental ballistic missile.
This raises fresh concerns that Iran is working to extend the range of its missiles. The timing is sensitive, as United Nations sanctions on Iran’s nuclear program are expected to be reimposed this weekend. Meanwhile, Iran is also repairing missile facilities damaged by Israeli strikes.
Experts believe Tehran sees missile development as vital. Behnam Ben Taleblu, an analyst from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said Israel’s recent success against Iran’s missile attacks highlighted the need for Tehran to create more advanced and reliable weapons. The think tank has long criticized Iran’s policies, and Iran has already sanctioned it in return.
