Iran has firmly stated that its missile program is not up for discussion in any talks with the United States, with a foreign ministry spokesman declaring that the missiles are 'only for firing, not for negotiations.'
Spokesman's Strong Statement
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei made the comments on Thursday, emphasizing Tehran's stance on its ballistic missile capabilities. 'Our missiles do not like at all to be talked about by anyone,' Baqaei said, according to state media. He stressed that the missile program is a matter of national security and defense, not a bargaining chip in diplomatic negotiations.
Context of US-Iran Tensions
The statement comes amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, particularly under the administration of President Donald Trump. The US has previously sought to include Iran's missile program in broader nuclear negotiations, but Tehran has consistently rejected such demands. Baqaei's remarks reaffirm Iran's position that its missile capabilities are non-negotiable and solely intended for defensive purposes.
Regional Implications
Iran's missile program has been a point of contention in West Asia, with neighboring countries and Western powers expressing concern over its range and potential capabilities. However, Iran maintains that its missiles are a deterrent against foreign aggression and are not subject to external oversight or negotiation.
The spokesman's comments were reported by DH Online on June 18, 2026, and have been widely circulated in international media. The issue remains a key sticking point in any potential diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
