New York Times: Criticism in Guterres' Report on Iran's Missile Tests Has Decreased

The New York Times reports that in the latest report by Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, regarding Iran's missile tests, there are fewer criticisms compared to the previous report from this organization. This report has not yet been released, but the New York Times has seen a version of it dated June 14, which is set to be presented to the Security Council as the first report of its kind by the new UN Secretary-General. The Trump administration imposed new sanctions against Iran in February and May, linked to Tehran's missile programs. The New York Times states that the 'softening' of Guterres' report is significant, especially since the Trump administration has adopted a stricter approach towards Iran, deeming missile tests unacceptable. Additionally, according to the New York Times, the moderate language used by the UN Secretary-General in this report may complicate US-led efforts to increase sanctions and pressure on Iran at the UN. In the last report by Ban Ki-moon, the former UN Secretary-General, regarding the implementation of UN Resolution 2231, he expressed concern that Iran's missile tests might not be consistent with the 'spirit' of the nuclear agreement. He also urged Iran to refrain from such tests, as they could potentially escalate tensions in the region. The New York Times indicates that in the report it has seen, Guterres also urged Tehran to refrain from similar missile tests, but it does not reflect the concerns raised by Ban Ki-moon. Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, has not yet responded to the New York Times report. Iran has consistently stated that its missile programs and tests do not violate the nuclear agreement and are defensive in nature. Tehran argues that Resolution 2231 does not mention a prohibition on such tests. The New York Times, citing a group of disarmament experts, suggests that this report may reduce the likelihood of sanctions against Iran through the UN. They also propose that Guterres may have concluded that potential sanctions would not prevent Iran's missile program and could strengthen the position of 'hardliners' within the Iranian government. The White House, at the same time that Donald Trump was sworn in as President, released a document indicating that the new US administration is determined to 'develop a missile defense system' to 'counter missile threats from Iran and North Korea.' Trump himself stated last year that no option is off the table regarding Iran's ballistic missile program. According to UN Security Council Resolution 1929, 'Iran is prohibited from undertaking any activities related to ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads.' Iran claims its missiles are not designed to carry nuclear warheads, as it does not intend to pursue nuclear weapons. However, several US-allied countries in the region, including Israel, argue that missile tests are aimed at reaching the stage of producing weapons capable of carrying nuclear warheads, posing a threat to the entire region.