TEHRAN - The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman countered recent statements from the foreign ministries of France, Germany, and the UK regarding Iran’s Fattah-2 missile program.

Nasser Kanaani dismissed the European claims as misleading, devoid of legal grounding, and politically motivated. 

Expressing Iran’s discontent, he accused the European nations of presenting a biased perspective on the Iranian missile program. 

Kanaani advised the three European countries to avoid making claims that hinder constructive interactions between Iran and Europe. He emphasized the importance of fostering a fair dialogue and a shared understanding to promote mutual cooperation in various domains.

The spokesman emphasized that Iran’s program is entirely for peaceful purposes, aligning with the nation’s defense requirements. He clarified that Iran’s actions are within the bounds of international law and sovereignty.

He urged the international community to recognize Iran’s commitment to peaceful and defensive measures.

Iranian authorities have consistently emphasized their unwavering commitment to enhancing the nation’s military capabilities, particularly the development of its missile power, which are entirely meant for defense. The officials have also asserted that Iran’s defense capabilities are non-negotiable and will never be subject to discussions or compromises. 

Kanaani also clarified Iran’s missile restrictions status, highlighting that all missile restrictions on the Islamic Republic of Iran should have been lifted on October 17, 2023, under a timetable spelled out in the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers.

He dismissed the claims made in the European countries’ statements, deeming them unacceptable and without any legal merit.

Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) unveiled the homegrown Fattah-2 hypersonic missile as well as other new military achievements on November 19, 2023.

In a joint statement released on November 19, the three European allies – known as E3-, said they would uphold their sanctions in a “direct response to Iran’s consistent and severe noncompliance” with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

The sanctions specifically prohibit Iran from developing ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear weapons, as well as prevent the purchase, sale, or transfer of drones and missiles to and from Iran. Additionally, the sanctions encompass freezing the assets of various Iranian individuals and entities linked to nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

MAS