Tehran Responds to EU Criticism of Iranian Missile Tests – Reuters

LONDON (Reuters) – Iran has rejected European Union criticism regarding its missile program, regional actions, and human rights record, further straining the already tense relationship as both parties attempt to revive a troubled nuclear agreement.

The remarks from Iran followed a day after the EU criticized the Islamic Republic’s ballistic missile tests and expressed concerns over Iran’s involvement in escalating tensions across the Middle East.

Despite the United States withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal—which required Iran to limit its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief—the EU has committed to uphold the agreement. Analysts note that the EU’s increased criticism of Iran’s missile program and regional policies aims to demonstrate to Washington that it is possible to manage Iran’s influence while maintaining the nuclear pact.

On Tuesday, Iran’s foreign ministry emphasized that the country would not engage in negotiations regarding its missile program, which it maintains is purely defensive and intended as a deterrent.

The ministry stated, “Clear threats against the Islamic Republic are not constructive, efficient, or helpful, and they do not align with regional security or the real interests of Europe.”

Over the past two decades, Iran has significantly expanded its missile program, particularly its ballistic missiles, despite opposition from the United States and concern from European nations, especially France.

To support the nuclear agreement, Britain, France, and Germany recently introduced the Instrument In Support Of Trade Exchanges (INSTEX), aimed at facilitating non-dollar trade with Iran while circumventing U.S. sanctions. While Iran’s foreign ministry welcomed this new trade mechanism, they described it as “late and inadequate,” warning that they would reconsider their relations with Europe if it did not yield economic benefits.

The EU has also urged Tehran to cease activities that exacerbate mistrust, including alleged Iranian assassination plots. France, Denmark, and the Netherlands have accused Iran of orchestrating attacks on opposition figures and have arrested suspects linked to Iranian embassies and intelligence.

In response to the EU’s warnings, Iran’s foreign ministry dismissed the accusations, asserting, “Raising such baseless and hollow accusations while known terrorist and criminal groups are free in Europe is not constructive at this stage and aligns with the objectives of those seeking to undermine Iran’s relations with Europe.”