Iran sends rocket into space during talks with US on nuclear deal
Photo: Ministry of Defense of Iran / WANA / Reuters
Iran launched a rocket with a satellite into space. Tehran intends to launch a spacecraft with three research modules into orbit, Al Jazeera reported, citing Iranian state media. The launch took place against the backdrop of ongoing negotiations on a “nuclear deal” in Vienna.
According to some reports, the launch of the Iranian Phoenix rocket was successful. All three modules were delivered to low-earth orbit – at an altitude of 470 kilometers. Iran's Defense Ministry said it sent the space cargo into orbit solely for scientific purposes.
The missile was launched during Iran's ongoing talks with the United States and other mediators to conclude a new Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Tehran's nuclear program. In 2018, such a launch caused a sharp reaction from Washington, which unilaterally withdrew from the agreement and renewed economic sanctions against Iran.
Negotiations were resumed in the fall of 2021, but the United States is already developing scenarios in case the new deal fails. White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said earlier in December that Washington is doing diplomatic work in this direction with other JCPOA countries.
