Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Iran Again Claims Long Range Missile Test Success

Iran has repeatedly run test launches of various missile systems. Some are more successful than others. Iran is claiming that its latest long range missile test was a success, and that bodes poorly for President Obama's attempts to engage in dialogue with Iran.

While Obama talks, Iran prepares its long range missiles and advances on the nuclear weapons front as its centrifuges continue churning out enriched uranium.

The Iranians claim that their missile went 1,200 miles, which is more than sufficient to hit Israel, most anywhere in the Middle East, and even parts of Europe. It would also put US bases in the region at risk of attack.

While the AP would like to play up the fact that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has 12 opponents in upcoming elections, his rule was given a big backing by the reigning mullahs. That stamp of approval goes a long way to assuring that the Iranians are going to continue down this confrontational path, regardless of the cost.

UPDATE:
Video of the launch can be found here:



It looks real enough to me, although claims regarding its accuracy can't be garnered from the launch video. Considering how much trouble the Iranians have had in launching missiles, getting them to hit their targets is a magnitude more difficult.

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