Sinclair Broadcast Group:
WASHINGTON (Sinclair Broadcast Group) — Iran says it plans to conduct a rocket test in the next few days – part of what it calls a space launch program – but added to two missile tests last fall, its raising eyebrows in Washington.
“This space launch vehicle will have a range of 4,000 – 5,000 kilometers,” said Fred Fleitz, a former C.I.A. analyst who now works with the Center for Security Policy.
“There’s no chance that this is for satellites or putting monkeys into space. This is a test of an ICBM.”
ICBM is short for Intercontinental Ballistic Missile. Fleitz said such tests are actually not prohibited by the Iran nuclear deal reached last fall between Iran, the United States and five other world powers.
But Fleitz said the planned test is still a rebuke by the Islamic Republic, which also conducted two other ballistic missile tests last fall. Additionally, a letter recently surfaced written by Iranian Gen. Mohsen Rezaei to President Hassan Rouhani, suggesting the goal of forcing americans back to the negotiating table.
“It wouldn’t surprise me that the reason they’re making these provocative statements is that they would like to get concessions out of the west especially the United States,” Fleitz said, adding they likely are looking for additional economic sanctions relief.
On Capitol Hill, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have expressed concern.
“Are they trying to target our friends like Israel? How are they trying to threaten the balance of power within the middle east against some of these other moderate sunni arab nations?” Asked Rep. Will Hurd (R-Texas).
