France: Iran's Missile Program is a Source of Instability and Insecurity in the Region

On Wednesday, November 15, the spokesperson for the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Iran's missile program is a source of instability and insecurity in the region, adding that Paris seeks clear and 'non-negotiable' negotiations with Tehran regarding the Islamic Republic's missile program. According to Reuters, Agnes Romatet Spain said: France is concerned about the pace of Iran's missile program, which is not in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2231 and is a source of instability and insecurity in the region. Resolution 2231, which endorsed the nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers, known as the JCPOA, requested Iran to refrain from developing ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The spokesperson also mentioned that France is interested in exploring all diplomatic options; including clear and non-negotiable political dialogues; investigations by the UN Secretary-General; potential new European sanctions against companies and individuals linked to the missile program; and ultimately starting a negotiation period on this issue. France has previously called for separate negotiations with Iran regarding its missile program, apart from the nuclear agreement. However, Federica Mogherini, the EU's foreign policy chief, opposed this on Tuesday, stating that there is no need to jeopardize the nuclear agreement with renewed negotiations. In this context, French President Emmanuel Macron stated last week during a regional visit that negotiations with Iran regarding its missile program are necessary. In response to the French President's remarks, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated on Saturday that Iran will not negotiate over its missile program. Bahram Qasemi said: 'We have repeatedly told French officials that the JCPOA is not negotiable and no other issues will be allowed to be added to it.' He added that France is fully aware of the Islamic Republic's 'firm position' that 'Iran's defense matters are non-negotiable.' Nevertheless, the French Foreign Ministry spokesperson reiterated on Wednesday that the nuclear agreement should not be involved in this matter. He added that France is negotiating with other European governments regarding Iran's missile program as well as with Federica Mogherini. Meanwhile, diplomatic sources told Reuters that Jean-Yves Le Drian, the French Foreign Minister, who was scheduled to visit Tehran by the end of this month, has postponed his trip due to a busy work schedule. The Foreign Minister was supposed to travel to Tehran to prepare for Emmanuel Macron's visit to Iran.