Iranian Supreme Leader's Adviser Says Iran's Missile Capabilities Not Negotiable

JAKARTA - Iran's missile capabilities are a red line and not a negotiable subject, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader said on Wednesday, as Tehran and Washington eyed a new round of talks to avert conflict.

US and Iranian diplomats held indirect talks last week in Oman, amid increased regional naval power by the US that threatens Iran.

"The Islamic Republic's missile capabilities are not negotiable," Ali Shamkhani said according to state media while appearing in a parade commemorating the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Revolution, Anadolu (11/2) reported.

Washington has long sought to broaden talks on Iran's nuclear capabilities to include its missile program as well.

On the other hand, Iran has said it is ready to discuss curbs on its nuclear program in return for the lifting of sanctions, but has repeatedly refused to link the issue to other questions including missiles.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to use a meeting with Trump in Washington on Wednesday to push for a US-Iranian deal to include restrictions on Tehran's missiles.

Yesterday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Tehran's missile program had never been part of the negotiating agenda.