Iran Warns of New Missile Deployment if Israel Strikes Again

Iran declared on Wednesday that it is fully prepared for any renewed Israeli aggression, revealing that it has developed missiles with far greater capabilities than those used during their recent 12-day conflict.

Defence Minister Aziz Nassirzadeh told the official IRNA news agency: “The missiles used in the 12-day war were manufactured a few years ago. Today, we have manufactured and possess missiles with far greater capabilities than previous missiles, and if the Zionist enemy embarks on the adventure again, we will undoubtedly use them.”

In mid-June, Israel launched a bombing campaign against Iran, triggering a short but intense war. In response, Iran carried out missile and drone strikes targeting Israeli positions.

The Israeli offensive resulted in the deaths of senior military commanders, nuclear scientists, and hundreds of others, striking both military installations and residential areas. The United States briefly intervened with strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

A ceasefire has been in effect between Iran and Israel since 24 June, though Iranian officials have cautioned that hostilities could resume at any time.

First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref said on Monday: “We are not even in a ceasefire; we are in a cessation of hostilities. Iran should be prepared at every moment for confrontation.”

In addition, the Iranian army is set to begin a two-day military exercise on Thursday, demonstrating a wide array of short and medium-range cruise missiles.

Missile Capabilities and Regional Concerns

Western governments have consistently expressed concern over Iran’s missile programme, citing it as a threat to regional stability. In July, France called for a comprehensive deal with Tehran addressing its nuclear programme, missile development, and regional ambitions.

Iran, however, has repeatedly insisted that its military capabilities are non-negotiable, maintaining that its preparations are purely defensive.