Iran Stresses Defensive Purpose of Missile Program Amid Rising Tensions
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized on Monday that Iran’s missile program is for defense, not aggression, amid escalating tensions following U.S. military deployments in the Middle East. As the U.S. sends B-52 bombers to the region in response to Iranian threats of retaliation, Iranian officials continue to denounce Israel’s actions in Gaza and Lebanon, condemning the violence as a violation of human rights. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, labeled the U.S. presence as “destabilizing” and stated that any aggression would meet a decisive response.
Iran's missile program is designed solely for defense and to deter potential attacks, not to initiate hostilities, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated at a ceremony on Monday. Emphasizing the defensive nature of Iran's arsenal, Pezeshkian explained, “Our missiles are not intended for expansion or aggression, but to prevent anyone from daring to attack us.”
Pezeshkian expressed admiration for the resilience of Palestinians in Gaza, highlighting how the ongoing bombardment has not forced them to surrender. He accused Israeli leaders of hypocrisy, citing the contrast between their claims of defending human rights and the violence carried out under their command.
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Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei criticized recent U.S. military actions, specifically the deployment of B-52 bombers to the Middle East as a warning to Iran. Speaking at a press conference, Baghaei labeled the U.S. military presence in the region “destabilizing” but emphasized that Iran remains committed to self-defense.
The Pentagon announced over the weekend that it would be sending additional B-52 bombers to the Middle East, citing flexibility and readiness to respond if Iran or its allies threaten U.S. personnel or interests. Pentagon spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder affirmed that the U.S. “will take every measure necessary” to protect its people, adding that these deployments are meant to deter any potential escalations.
Four Iranian soldiers lost their lives during the latest assault, which caused limited damage to some radar systems, according to Iranian officials. Baghaei warned that Iran’s response to this aggression would be “definite and decisive,” and reaffirmed Iran’s support for efforts to achieve ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon, where the conflict with Israeli forces continues.
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