Netanyahu Says Iran Is Developing Missiles Capable of Reaching U.S. Territory

TEL AVIV, Israel — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Iran is developing intercontinental ballistic missiles that could eventually reach the United States, arguing that Washington is Tehran’s “real target.”

In interviews, Netanyahu claimed Iran was pursuing missiles with a range of about 8,000 kilometers (nearly 5,000 miles). He said an additional 3,000 kilometers (about 1,865 miles) of range would put major U.S. East Coast cities, including New York, Washington, Boston and Miami, within reach.

Netanyahu argued that Iran’s missile and nuclear ambitions extend beyond its confrontation with Israel and pose a potential threat to the United States.

However, there is no independently verified evidence that Iran currently possesses intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the United States. Iran’s longest-range missiles are generally estimated to have a range of around 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles), putting Israel, U.S. military bases in the region and parts of southeastern Europe within reach.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has rejected Netanyahu’s allegations, describing them as fabricated and imaginary. Tehran maintains that its missile program is intended for national defense and regional deterrence, not to target the United States.

Iran’s missile capabilities and nuclear activities have long been sources of tension with Israel and Western governments. Israel has repeatedly warned that Iran’s military development could threaten regional and international security, while Tehran insists that its defense capabilities are intended to protect the country.

Netanyahu has issued similar warnings about Iran’s potential to develop missiles capable of reaching the U.S. mainland for more than a decade. His latest comments come amid continuing disputes over Iran’s nuclear program, its missile development and the possibility that Tehran could eventually acquire nuclear weapons.

Iran denies seeking to build nuclear weapons, while Israel and Western governments have expressed concerns about the country’s nuclear activities and the potential military applications of its technology.

The claims about Iran’s missile range remain disputed, and the distinction between Tehran’s currently known capabilities and the longer-range systems described by Netanyahu is central to assessing the threat he outlined.

GAROWE ONLINE