Defying Trump, Iran test-fires 1,200-mile ballistic missile

Iran has tested a new ballistic missile capable of hitting targets 1,200 miles away, according to state media.

Images of the “successful” launch were carried by broadcaster IRIB, including video from an on-board camera.

The rocket, which Tehran said could carry several warheads, was shown off by the regime at a military parade on Friday.

State TV said the Khorramshahr missile is the country’s third to have a range of 1,200 miles (2,000km).

The test firing of the missile is likely to fuel tensions with Washington.

US President Donald Trump, speaking at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, noted Iran was building its missile capability and accused it of exporting violence to Yemen, Syria and other parts of the Middle East.

Trump has been critical of the 2015 nuclear deal the US and other world powers struck with Iran. Under the pact, Tehran agreed to restrict its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of economic sanctions.

During Friday’s military parade, President Hassan Rouhani said his country would strengthen its missile capabilities without seeking permission from any other country.

But the US has argued Iran’s missile tests breach a UN resolution, which endorsed the nuclear deal.

Washington has called on Tehran not to get involved in activities linked to nuclear missiles.

Iran has insisted the missiles are not designed to carry nuclear weapons and is not in violation of the resolution.