France's Reaction to 'Khyber' Missile Test: Violates UN Security Council Resolution

On Thursday, France condemned the Islamic Republic of Iran's test of the long-range ballistic missile 'Khyber' and called it a violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2231. According to a spokesperson for the French Foreign Ministry, 'These activities are increasingly concerning in the context of the escalation of Iran's nuclear program.' Voice of America has sought reactions from the U.S. government, including the Department of Defense and the State Department. Iranian media released images on Thursday of the test of a ballistic missile titled 'Khyber' or 'Khoramshahr 4.' These media claim that the missile has a range of two thousand kilometers and is 'equipped with a high-explosive warhead weighing 1,500 kilograms.' The length of the 'Khoramshahr 4' or 'Khyber' missile, which is powered by liquid fuel, is about 13 meters, and its warhead is approximately 4 meters long. Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, Iran's Minister of Defense, stated at the unveiling ceremony of the missile that the Islamic Republic is determined to 'defend the country' and 'the achievements of the Islamic Revolution.' He described the message of this action for the friends of the Islamic Republic as 'comprehensive support' for them. The new missile test occurs while negotiations to revive the JCPOA between Iran and world powers have been stalled since last summer due to what has been described as Iran's 'extravagant demands.' Iran's missile and drone activities have been among the most serious concerns for Western countries regarding the Islamic Republic, leading to several rounds of sanctions against it. With ongoing concerns about Iran's military programs, several U.S. lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill to sanction a wide range of Iran's missile and drone activities. The United States has so far imposed numerous sanctions on those involved in and supporting Iran's military program, particularly its ballistic missile program. Additionally, Israel has claimed that Iran has turned commercial ships into 'floating terrorist bases.' The U.S. Navy has intensified patrols to ensure the security of international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. McCarthy in the Israeli parliament stated that the Islamic Republic is a factor of violence and instability in the region. Iran is reportedly engaged in 'intensive negotiations' with Russia and China to secure fuel for its ballistic missiles. The Islamic Republic has once again threatened the West, stating, 'Your ships are within our range.' The head of the CIA has noted that Iran has made progress in developing missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads.