Gary Fitleberg, September 8, 2004

Iran is preparing a test of the medium-range Shahab-3 missile capable of targeting Israel and American forces in the region, one month after Iran conducted a separate successful test of the missile, The Associated Press reported.

The Shahab-3 is Iran's longest-range ballistic missile, with a range of about 810 miles. Last month, Iranian Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani said Iran is developing its Shahab-3 missile to fight Israel and said, "That's why we have to invest on nuclear defense preparation."

Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) last week said in a report that Iran planned a "larger test" of a uranium conversion facility "involving 37 tons of yellowcake," which could result in enough uranium to build five nuclear weapons, Reuters reported.

Gary Fitleberg is a Political Analyst specializing in International Relations with emphasis on Middle East affairs.

Copyright © 2004 Gary Fitleberg