Iran: The missile program is a red line, we will not negotiate on it

Iran refuses to allow its missile capabilities to become a subject of negotiations with the United States. On Wednesday, Ali Shamkhani, advisor to the Supreme Leader, said that Iran's missile program is a "red line" and will not be negotiated.

He made the statement during a march marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, at a time when Tehran and Washington are considering another round of talks aimed at preventing conflict.

American and Iranian diplomats held indirect talks in Oman last week. They took place at a time when the US is strengthening its naval presence in the region, which Iran perceives as pressure.

Washington has long insisted that negotiations on Iran's nuclear program should also include missiles. Tehran, however, has repeatedly emphasized that it is prepared to discuss restrictions on its nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of sanctions, but refuses to link this to other issues.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to press Donald Trump during their meeting to ensure that any agreement also includes restrictions on Iranian missiles. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi has previously stated that the missile program has never been part of the agenda for talks.

(reuters, lud)