Iran’s missile capabilities are its red line and are not a subject to be negotiated, an adviser to Iran’s supreme leader said on Wednesday, as the Islamic Republic marked the anniversary of the 1979 revolution with events overshadowed by the looming threat of US military action.

“The Islamic Republic’s missile capabilities are nonnegotiable,” Ali Shamkhani said, according to state media, while appearing in a march commemorating the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution.

Washington has long sought to extend talks on Iran’s nuclear capabilities to additionally cover its missile program. Iran has said it is prepared to discuss curbs on its nuclear program in return for the lifting of sanctions, but has repeatedly ruled out linking the issue to other questions, including missiles.

US President Donald Trump has not ruled out strikes against Tehran although, after initially threatening military action due to the regime’s treatment of protesters, he has since tied his decision to a potential deal on the Iranian nuclear program. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who wants a tougher stance against Tehran, was due to hold talks with Trump at the White House on Wednesday.

In a speech at Azadi Square in the capital for the 47th anniversary of the Islamic revolution, President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran would not yield to “excessive demands” from Washington.

“Our Iran will not yield in the face of aggression, but we are continuing dialogue with all our strength with neighboring countries in order to establish peace and tranquility in the region,” he said.

Pezeshkian also insisted that his nation was “not seeking nuclear weapons…. and are ready for any kind of verification.”........

© The Times of Israel