29 Sep 2009

Concern expressed over missile tests

12:20 pm on 29 September 2009

The British and French governments have expressed concern over Iran's missile tests ahead of international talks on the Iranian nuclear issue later this week.

Iranian media say Iran has successfully test-fired Shahab and Sejil missiles.

The BBC reports both the Shahab-3 and the Sajjil are capable of reaching much of the Middle East including Israel and American bases in the Persian Gulf.

The Sajjil is a new, two-stage missile using solid fuel, which is considered to give a more accurate delivery than liquid fuel rockets.

It has been tested by Iran twice, in November 2008 and May 2009.

The BBC reports Iran is under increasing pressure to co-operate fully over its nuclear ambitions - particularly since the disclosure last Monday of a previously secret uranium enrichment plant.

President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad insists that the plant, near the holy city of Qom, does not breach UN regulations.

Russia has urged international restraint. Iran says the tests are for defensive purposes.

Talks in Geneva

Iran is due to meet the five permanent members of the UN Security Council in Geneva on 1 October to discuss a range of issues, including its nuclear plans.

UN Security Council members are Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States. Germany will also attend.