Iran rejects missile limits in US deal, says without missiles country would be like Gaza
Iran has firmly rejected any attempt to include restrictions on its missile programme in ongoing negotiations with the United States, reiterating that its defence capabilities are non-negotiable.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that the country’s missile strength is a core pillar of national security and warned that without it, Iran would be left as vulnerable as Gaza. His remarks came amid continuing discussions between Tehran and Washington under a recently signed interim understanding.
According to Iranian officials, the missile programme was not part of the 14-point memorandum of understanding reached with the US and will not be included in any future agreement. Tehran maintains that its defensive capabilities are essential for deterrence and sovereignty, especially amid ongoing regional instability and past military confrontations involving Israel and US-linked forces.
The statement underscores deep differences between the two sides, as Washington and its allies have repeatedly pushed for limits on Iran’s ballistic missile development alongside nuclear-related commitments. However, Iran has consistently maintained that its missile programme is outside the scope of negotiations.
The latest remarks are expected to further complicate efforts to expand the fragile diplomatic framework aimed at easing tensions and stabilising the wider Middle East region.
