Iran used an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) to send a satellite into space earlier this month, Israeli Minister of Intelligence and Strategic Affairs Yuval Steinitz revealed in an interview yesterday. Steinitz contended that the use of an ICBM to launch the satellite was the means by which Iran could test the efficacy of its missiles.

“It’s actually a test for intercontinental ballistic missiles that can bring nuclear warheads directly from Iran to Boston or to New York,” Steinitz said.

“And therefore it’s true it’s a greater threat to Israel because they are speaking about the annihilation of the Jewish state, but it’s a great threat to the United States of America…”

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani boasted at the launch of the satellite that “our scientists have entered a new phase for conquering space. We will continue on this path.” It was Iran’s fourth satellite launch since 2009 and first successful one since 2012.

Iran’s use of missile technology was criticized by the State Department, with spokesperson Jen Psaki stating that “Iran’s missile program continues to pose a dangerous threat to the region and is an issue we monitor closely.”

But according to Al Monitor, Iranian officials denied that the development and launch of an ICBM was for military purposes, and even if it was, it wouldn’t be a violation of international law.

Iranian nuclear negotiator and Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied Psaki’s claims, saying today, “Iran’s missile program has a completely defensive nature and the Islamic Republic of Iran in no way views the defensive matters of the country negotiable and we are not ready to discuss this matter with any foreigner.”

Araghchi added, “Therefore, never in the framework of the nuclear talks with the P5+1, whether in the past or currently, has ​Iran given permission to plan or negotiate the country’s defensive and military abilities, and this permission will not be given in the future.”

According to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1929, which was passed overwhelmingly in 2010 (emphasis added):

Decides that Iran shall not acquire an interest in any commercial activity in another State involving uranium mining, production or use of nuclear materials and technology as listed in INFCIRC/254/Rev.9/Part 1, in particular uranium-enrichment and reprocessing activities, all heavy-water activities or technology-related to ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons, and further decides that all States shall prohibit such investment in territories under their jurisdiction by Iran, its nationals, and entities incorporated in Iran or subject to its jurisdiction, or by persons or entities acting on their behalf or at their direction, or by entities owned or controlled by them;

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