Casablanca – Iran announced Wednesday that it has developed a new generation of advanced missiles, vowing to use them if Israel launches new attacks, raising fears of another escalation just weeks after a fragile ceasefire ended a 12-day war.
“The missiles used in the 12-day war were manufactured a few years ago,” said Defense Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh, quoted by state media. “Today, we possess missiles with far greater capabilities, and if the Zionist enemy embarks on another adventure, we will undoubtedly use them.”
The June conflict was triggered by an Israeli bombing campaign that targeted Iranian commanders, nuclear scientists, and military sites, while also striking residential areas.
Iran responded with a wave of missile and drone attacks that it claimed overwhelmed Israel’s defenses. The United States briefly joined the fighting with strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities before a cessation of hostilities was declared on June 24.
Since then, Tehran has repeatedly warned that the truce is tenuous. First Vice President Mohammed Reza Aref said this week that Iran should be “prepared at every moment for confrontation,” adding: “We are not even in a ceasefire; we are in a cessation of hostilities.”
Iran’s army is scheduled to begin a two-day military exercise on Thursday, showcasing a wide range of short and medium range cruise missiles.
Western governments have expressed alarm over Tehran’s missile program, with France in July urging a “comprehensive deal” covering both nuclear and missile activities. Iran officials, however, maintain that their defense capabilities are non-negotiable.
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