Iran Will Not Yield on Missile Program, Tehran Challenges U.S.; What Missiles Are in Khamenei’s Arsenal?

Tehran: Iran has firmly stated that it will not compromise on its missile program, amid ongoing tensions with the United States. The warning came from Ali Shamkhani, advisor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a program marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. According to state media, Shamkhani emphasized that Iran’s missile capabilities are non-negotiable, even as Tehran and Washington recently held preliminary talks in Oman regarding Iran’s nuclear program.

Stalled Talks with the U.S.

Last week’s discussions produced no concrete results, although both sides agreed to continue negotiations. Tehran insists that talks focus solely on its nuclear program, while Washington seeks to include Iran’s ballistic missile program and regional alliances. Analysts note that this divergence signals a potential impasse between the two nations.

Rising Regional Tensions

Iran recently fought a 12-day war with Israel in June 2025, resulting in approximately 610 deaths. The threat of renewed conflict looms large, especially as the United States has deployed a carrier strike group to the Middle East, with former President Donald Trump threatening to send additional forces if Iran does not comply. In a statement to Axios, Trump warned, “Either we reach a deal, or, like last time, we will take very significant action.”

Iran’s Ballistic Missile Program

Despite U.S. sanctions and repeated threats from Israel, Iran has continued to advance its missile program. According to the U.S. National Intelligence, Iran possesses the largest stockpile of ballistic missiles in the Middle East. Its missiles have a range of up to 2,000 kilometers, capable of reaching Israel.

Iran’s missile infrastructure includes several sites around Tehran and underground complexes in provinces such as Kermanshah and Semnan, with at least five dedicated underground missile cities. In April 2025, the semi-official news outlet ISNA reported nine missiles capable of striking Israel.

Key Missiles in Iran’s Arsenal

• Sejil Missile: 1,500–2,500 km range
• Emad Missile: 1,700 km range
• Ghadar Missile: 2,000 km range
• Shahab Missile: 1,300 km range
• Khorramshahr Missile: 2,000 km range
• Hoveizeh Missile: 1,350 km range

Iran’s public stance underscores its determination to maintain strategic autonomy in the region, sending a clear message to Washington that its missile program remains untouchable.