Tehran, (IINA) - Iran has defied U.S pressures and launched several ballistic missiles from across the country as part of a military exercise, BBC reported citing state media.
The Revolutionary Guards said in a statement that the tests were intended "to show Iran's deterrent power and also the Islamic Republic's ability to confront any threat against the [Islamic] Revolution, the state and the sovereignty of the country".
U.S state department deputy spokesman Mark Toner said it was "aware of and following closely" the reports of the missile tests. He said: "If confirmed, we intend to raise the matter in the UN Security Council. We will also encourage a serious review of the incident and press for an appropriate response".
"This development underscores why we continue to work closely with partners around the world to slow and degrade Iran's missile program".
UN experts said those tests had violated a Security Council resolution. Resolution 1929, which barred Iran from undertaking any work on ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads, was terminated after a nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers was implemented two months ago. A new resolution, 2231, then came into effect that "calls upon" Iran not to undertake such activity.
Nevertheless, Iran says it does not have nuclear weapons and will continue missile development.
The head of the Guards' Aerospace Force, Brigader General Amir Ali Hajizadeh told state television that the missiles had "struck a target 700km (435 miles) away".
He warned that the U.S was "trying to turn off the lights of Iran's missile program", adding: "The Guards don't give into threats".
AG/IINA
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