Despite Israeli Demands... Iran's Shamkhani Says "No Missile Negotiations"

Iran: "Missile Capabilities Are Deterrence"...Dismisses Israeli Demands
Israel: "Ballistic Missiles Must Also Be on the Table"

Ali Shamkhani, political adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, reaffirmed on the 13th (local time) that his country's missile capabilities are not a subject for negotiation with the United States.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Adviser Shamkhani stated, "Iran's missile capabilities are at the core of our defense doctrine and part of our deterrence," adding, "This is an issue that constitutes a red line and cannot be negotiated." However, he stressed that there is a willingness to pursue diplomatic efforts for de-escalation and a political solution, saying, "Middle Eastern countries recognize that any escalation of conflict poses a serious threat to collective security and regional stability."

His remarks came as U.S.-Iran nuclear talks resumed after an eight-month hiatus. On the 6th, Steve Witkoff, U.S. President Donald Trump's special envoy for the Middle East, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held indirect talks in Muscat, Oman, to restart negotiations. Iran maintains that the agenda should be limited to its nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions, while Israel is demanding that the talks also include restrictions on the range of ballistic missiles and an end to support for proxy forces in the Middle East.

Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after meeting President Donald Trump at the White House, said, "Negotiations with Iran must include not only the nuclear issue but also ballistic missiles and the issue of proxy forces." President Trump also pressured Iran, saying, "We have to reach an agreement. Otherwise, something very shocking will happen."

Regarding this, Adviser Shamkhani said, "Israel does not want a de-escalation of tensions between Iran and the United States," adding, "Israel cannot carry out an effective military operation against Iran without direct support from the United States." He also warned, "Iran will respond to any provocation in a firm, proportionate, and destructive manner."

Meanwhile, on the 5th, one day before the nuclear talks resumed, Adviser Shamkhani was appointed secretary of the Defense Committee under Iran's Supreme National Security Council. As he is regarded as one of the Supreme Leader's closest confidants, his influence over future nuclear negotiations and security issues is expected to grow further.