Iran has unveiled a new ballistic missile capable of striking targets at a distance of 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles). The missile was showcased during a televised event attended by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, according to French news agency AFP.
Named “Etemad”, which means “trust” in Persian, this missile is the latest ballistic missile developed by Iran’s Ministry of Defense. The advancement of Iran’s missile program has raised concerns among Western countries, which accuse Iran of destabilizing the Middle East.
Iran’s new missile, along with its other ballistic missiles, has the capability to reach Israel. During last year’s Gaza conflict, Iran launched missile attacks on Israel twice.
In his televised speech, President Pezeshkian stated that strengthening defense capabilities and space technology would ensure that no country dares to attack Iranian territory.
The event was held on Iran’s National Space Day, just days before the 46th anniversary of the Islamic Republic’s founding on February 10, 1979.
Since the return of former U.S. President Donald Trump, Iran has repeatedly demonstrated its military power. During his first term, Trump adopted a “maximum pressure” policy against Iran.
At the same time, Iran has expressed its willingness to restart negotiations over its nuclear program, a topic that has caused tensions with Western countries for decades.
After the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Washington severed ties with Iran and imposed sanctions, forcing Iran to develop its own weapons. Previously, Iran had sourced most of its military equipment from its ally, the United States.
During the devastating 1980-1988 war with Iraq, Iran faced arms embargoes. Today, Iran possesses a large arsenal of domestically developed weapons, including missiles, air defense systems, and drones.