In a firm statement made on Monday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that Tehran would never relinquish its missile program, citing the need for deterrence and ensuring national security. Pezeshkian highlighted the ongoing conflict between Iran's adversary, Israel, and Gaza as a key motivator, stating that possessing missiles is crucial to avoid potential attacks similar to the ones faced by Gaza.

For years, the Islamic Republic has consistently defied calls from Western nations to curtail its missile development initiatives. Pezeshkian emphasized that without possessing a robust missile defense system, Iran would be vulnerable to indiscriminate bombing, drawing a direct analogy to the situation in Gaza.

Reiterating Tehran's official stance, the Iranian President called on the international community to address Israel's military capabilities, urging them to disarm Israel first before imposing similar demands on Iran. This declaration underscores Iran's unwillingness to limit its missile program without ensuring a balance of power with regional adversaries.

Iran has consistently justified the development of its missile capabilities as necessary for self-defense purposes, particularly due to perceived threats from Israel and other regional actors. According to Iranian officials, possessing an effective missile defense system acts as a deterrent against potential aggression and provides a sense of security in a volatile region.

The Iranian government's refusal to halt its missile program has been a sticking point in nuclear talks with major world powers, such as the United States. However, Iranian officials argue that these negotiations should also focus on addressing the Israel factor, as the ongoing tensions between the two countries continue to shape Iran's defense priorities.

The issue of Iran's missile program remains a contentious topic, with Western nations expressing concern about its potential to destabilize the region. Nevertheless, Iran asserts that its missile capabilities are a crucial aspect of its national security strategy, ensuring its ability to respond to any potential threats.

As tensions persist in the Middle East, the debate surrounding Iran's missile program is likely to continue, with no immediate resolution in sight. As such, diplomatic efforts and negotiations will remain pivotal in finding a balance between regional security concerns and Iran's defense requirements.