After successfully launching its first satellite this week, Israeli and western officials are showing signs of increasing concern. The satellite launching signals yet another major Iranian technological advance as Tehran works simultaneously towards reaching nuclear independence and advancing its ballistic missile program.
 
It was a day of pride for the Islamic republic, when the satellite was launched during the predawn hours on Tuesday. It makes Iran the ninth nation capable of launching its own satellite around earth’s orbit.
 
Iranian officials were quick to release an official statement to the media, explaining the satellite is for research purposes only. Tehran also insists the nuclear program is for non-military purposes, to generate electricity and medical experimentation.
 
White House spokesman Robert Gibbs released a statement that President Barak Obama has not changed his position and America is keeping “all options open”. He added that the threat against Israel and ongoing terrorism remains high on the administration’s agenda.
 
While during his presidential campaign Obama signaled he would like to open a channel of dialogue with Iran, Gibbs stated that the actions of Tehran do not indicate Iran is leaning towards advancing regional peace.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)