Iran tests ballistic missiles, sets ‘red lines’ ahead of fresh nuclear talks
Iran successfully tests ballistic missiles capable of causing 'great destruction' as it sets limits on the scope of fothcoming nuclear talks with world powers
Iran laid out “red lines” on Monday related to its ballistic missile programme, atomic sites and uranium enrichment ahead of fresh nuclear talks with world powers.
President Hassan Rouhani insisted Iran was “serious” about the talks, as his negotiators warned they would not back down on some of the thorniest issues of the decade-long dispute.
Iran’s defence minister meanwhile announced the successful testing of a new ballistic missile capable of evading defensive systems and causing “great destruction”.
Negotiations are to resume in Vienna on February 18 and 19 between Iran and the so-called P5+1 group – Britain, France, the United States, Russia and China plus Germany.
Building on an interim deal reached in November, negotiators hope to reach a comprehensive accord to allay international concerns Iran is seeking a nuclear weapons capability, allegations denied by Tehran.
Iran made progress in separate but parallel negotiations over the weekend with the UN nuclear watchdog by agreeing to divulge information that could shed light on allegations of possible past weapons research.