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Iran launches three satellites amid heightened Middle-East tensions

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Iran has successfully launched three satellites for the first time, utilizing its domestically developed carrier rocket under the Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics, state media reported.

The achievement, while celebrated by Iran, has raised concerns among Western nations, who fear that it could potentially enhance Tehran’s ballistic missile program.

The satellites were propelled into space employing the Simorgh (Phoenix) satellite carrier rocket, marking another notable achievement for Iran’s space program on Sunday.

The launch attained a minimum orbit of 450km (280 miles) and involved the deployment of a 32kg (71 pounds) satellite, along with two smaller nano-satellites weighing less than 10kg each.

According to state media, the nano-satellites, named Kayhan-2 and Hatef-1, are slated for testing narrowband communication and geopositioning technology.

The Iranian Space Agency’s larger satellite, Mahda, will test the Simorgh rocket’s ability to deliver multiple cargoes to space despite its previous failures.

Israel – Hamas conflict

The timing of the satellite launch coincides with heightened tensions in the broader Middle East, primarily due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Gaza Strip.

These escalating tensions have raised concerns about the potential for a regional conflict. Notably, Iran-linked groups in Yemen, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon have carried out attacks targeting US and Israeli interests in solidarity with the Palestinians.

Also Read: Iran Dismisses European Condemnation Of Satellite Launch

Tragically, the Israeli bombardment has resulted in the loss of over 26,000 Palestinian lives in nearly four months of relentless violence. The situation remains deeply concerning and calls for concerted efforts to de-escalate the conflict and promote peace in the region.

Long-range ballistic missiles

In a recent development, Iran successfully deployed the Sorayya satellite using a rocket produced by the country’s military Revolutionary Guards. This accomplishment has raised concerns among European officials who suspect that Iran may exploit this technological advancement to further develop long-range ballistic missiles.

The situation underscores the ongoing apprehensions surrounding Iran’s missile capabilities and calls for continued vigilance and diplomatic efforts to address these concerns. Iran argues that its aerospace activities are peaceful and legitimate.

Dual-use rocket

The US intelligence community’s 2023 worldwide threat assessment cited Iran’s development of satellite launch vehicles as a step closer to developing missiles. The Simorgh was noted as a possible dual-use rocket.

During former President Hassan Rouhani’s tenure, Iran decelerated its space program to reduce tensions with the West. However, under President Ebrahim Raisi, the program has regained momentum.

Defiance of UN resolution

The United States has consistently voiced its stance that Iran’s satellite launches go against a UN Security Council resolution, urging Tehran to refrain from engaging in any activities involving ballistic missiles with the potential to carry nuclear weapons. It is worth noting that UN sanctions on Iran’s ballistic missile program expired in October of last year.

Following the US withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018, Iran has significantly increased its uranium enrichment to a level approaching weapons-grade. However, assessments from US intelligence agencies and other sources indicate that Tehran has not commenced an active pursuit of a nuclear weapon. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is solely intended for civilian purposes.

Source News Agencies
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