Iran on Thursday unveiled a ballistic missile reportedly capable of hitting targets within a radius of 2,000 kilometers, or 1,240 miles, according to media reports.
Officials showed the Khorramshahr-4 — which can reportedly carry a 3,300-pound warhead — to journalists in Tehran, The Associated Press reported. They also released undated footage of what they believe was a successful launch of the rocket.
“Our message to Iran’s enemies is that we will defend the country and its gains. Our message to our friends is that we want to help regional stability,” Iranian Defense Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtiani said, according to Reuters.
The rocket is said to be called Kheibar, in reference to a Jewish fortress captured by Muslims in the seventh century.
Tensions with Israel appeared to be top of mind at Thursday’s rocket display, which also featured a miniature example of the Dome of the Rock at Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque, AP reported.
A top Israeli general raised the prospect of “action” against Iran earlier this week amid reports that Tehran is building a nuclear facility deep underground in the Zagros Mountains.
“Iran is more advanced with uranium enrichment than ever before. … There are negative developments on the horizon that could lead to (military) action,” Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi said on Tuesday, according to Reuters.
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