Leadnaija
United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has raised serious concerns over Iran’s space ambitions, suggesting that the Islamic Republic’s space programme may be a cover for developing intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capabilities.
Speaking at a security forum on Monday, Rubio questioned Iran’s motives, stating:
“Why does Iran have a space program? Are they going to the moon? No. They are trying to build an ICBM so they can put a warhead on it.”
His remarks come amid growing tensions in the Middle East, with Western intelligence agencies closely monitoring Iran’s satellite launches and ballistic missile activities.
Rubio’s statement adds to fears that Tehran may be seeking to advance its missile technology under the guise of peaceful space exploration, potentially threatening global security if paired with nuclear capabilities.
The Iranian government has yet to respond to the U.S. Secretary of State’s allegations. However, Tehran has consistently maintained that its space and missile programmes are for scientific and defensive purposes.
International observers warn that the latest exchange could further strain diplomatic efforts to revive the stalled nuclear agreement and ease military tensions in the Gulf region.
