Iran Threatens Ukraine with Missile Strikes Over Support for Israel: How Far Can They Reach?.

According to UATV: Iran’s missile program now poses a direct threat to Ukraine, following Kyiv’s backing of Israel with drone technology. According to Ibrahim Azizi, head of the Iranian parliament’s national security and foreign policy commission, Ukraine has effectively entered the conflict by providing drone support to Israel. Azizi warned that under Article 51 of the UN Charter, this makes the entire territory of Ukraine a legitimate target for Iranian retaliation.

How Iran Built Its Missile Arsenal

Iran has strengthened its missile capabilities through foreign technology transfers. It gained access to Chinese missile technology via CSS-8 deliveries, which boosted the effectiveness of its programs. Additionally, in 1985, Iran purchased R-17 missiles from Libya, part of the Elbrus system, further advancing its arsenal. Notably, North Korea acquired Scud missiles from Egypt in the 1970s, highlighting a broader pattern of missile technology proliferation across the region.

Iran’s Current Missile Strength

Today, Iran is believed to possess over 3,000 ballistic missiles of various types. General Kenneth McKenzie confirmed this figure on March 15, 2022, stating that Iran holds more than 3,000 ballistic missiles. Iran has already launched between 1,000 and 1,200 missiles at targets in the Persian Gulf states and Israel, demonstrating active use of these weapons in regional conflicts.

The range of Iran’s missiles varies from 300 to 2,500 kilometers. Among its newer systems is the Khaibar-Shekan missile, with a range of 1,450 kilometers. The longest-range missile in Iran’s inventory is the Khorramshahr, tested in January 2017, which can reach up to 2,000 kilometers. Iran also produces missiles on a large scale through proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.

For context, the distance between southern Ukraine and northern Iran is roughly 1,450 to 1,500 kilometers. General McKenzie has described Iran’s missile forces as the greatest security threat to the region. He emphasized his concern, stating: “On a military level, what worries me most is that they don’t have nuclear weapons, but I am also very worried about the significant growth and effectiveness of their ballistic missile program.”

This threat takes on new dimensions given Ukraine’s ongoing conflict and its international support. Iran’s missile program is a critical factor in regional geopolitics, with potential implications not only for Ukraine but for neighboring countries as well. As tensions rise between Iran, Israel, and their allies, and as Ukraine continues to receive backing from various nations, the international community must pay close attention. Countries with influence in the region need to take steps to mitigate the risks posed by Iran’s missile program and its possible consequences for global security.