### Iran Urged to Conduct Nuclear Test Following Ballistic Missile Launch

In a rapidly unfolding situation, Iran has been advised to proceed with a nuclear test as soon as possible, according to Ahmad Naderi, a member of Iran's parliament. This call for action comes amidst reports of an intercontinental ballistic missile test in Iran and a series of recent escalating tensions in the region.

On May 25, 2023, Iran unveiled the Khaibar, a surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of 2,000 kilometers, in Tehran. A recent video widely circulated on social media has led to speculation about a potential intercontinental ballistic missile test in the northern city of Shahroud. Although Naderi did not confirm the specifics, he emphasized that this development should not come as a surprise.

Iran's arsenal already includes medium-range ballistic missiles capable of reaching Israel, but extending their range could bring European countries within reach. Just last month, an Israeli airstrike targeted multiple locations, including a vital IRGC missile facility in Shahroud. Satellite imagery from Planet Labs later confirmed significant damage to a ballistic missile and space rocket launch site.

Earlier this month, Kamal Kharrazi, former foreign minister and a top advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, hinted at the possibility of Iran lifting its self-imposed 2,500-kilometer missile range limit in response to perceived Israeli threats. Kharrazi also stated that Iran could reconsider its stance on nuclear weapons if faced with existential threats, despite a 2010 fatwa banning all forms of weapons of mass destruction.

Fueling the heightened tension, Israel conducted airstrikes on military targets in Iran on October 1, as a retaliatory response to a missile attack directed at Israel. These strikes damaged missile facilities and air defense systems, resulting in the deaths of four Iranian soldiers and one civilian.

In the wake of these developments, Iranian officials have varied in their rhetoric, with some suggesting a possible retaliatory response. The unfolding situation continues to escalate, raising concerns over regional stability and international security.