France, Germany, UK, US Condemn Iran's Space launch Vehicle

A photo released by the Iranian defence ministry shows the launch of the Simorgh satellite rocket from the Imam Khomeini National Space Centre at an undisclosed location in Iran on July 27, 2017. Iran – EPA

France, Germany, UK, US Condemn Iran’s Space launch Vehicle

Washington, MINA – In the aftermath of Iran’s launch of a Simorgh space vehicle, the US, UK, France and Germany said the country has “again demonstrated activity inconsistent” with UN Security Council Resolution 2231 and condemned the action.

“This resolution calls upon Iran to not undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such technology like this launch,” KUNA reported, citing the countries in a joint statement.

“Space launch vehicles use technologies that are closely related to those of ballistic missiles development, in particular to those of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles.” The launch follows missiles sent into Syria on June 18 and a test of medium range missile on July 4.

“We call on Iran not to conduct any further ballistic missile launches and related activities,” the statement said.

The four countries are voicing concern to the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and discussing the issue bilaterally with Iran, the statement affirmed. (T/RS5/RS1)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)