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Iran Follows Russia in Threatening New Administration with Ballistic Missiles

ATLANTA, Nov. 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Riki Ellison, Chairman of the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance (MDAA, http://www.missiledefenseadvocacy.org) pointed out today thatIran's test-firing of a long-range ballistic missile is an attempt to intimidatethe United States as the transition of Administrations is taking place. His comments are as follows:

"Yesterday,Iran launched a two stage solid fuel ballistic missile with a range of 1,200 miles making U.S. troops, bases, and allies in theMiddle East most notablyIsrael vulnerable to threats, intimidation and influence ofIran and its President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. This display of provocation intended to engage the new administration under President-elect Obama follows the similar tactics of the President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev who set a precedent less than a week ago by threatening the deployment of ballistic missiles on its border if the new U.S. administration does not withdrawal from the agreements that would deploy missile defenses inPoland and theCzech Republic."

"The Iranian ballistic missile proliferation, demonstration and development coupled with their quest for nuclear weapons creates an extremely unstable region that extends beyond theMiddle East and intoEurope."

"Countries within the region will be forced to react to equalize the status quo and maintain stability. Their limited options are, to rely upon and request American security, match and deter the ballistic missile inventory ofIran, launch pre-emptive military action, or become nuclear."

"Iran's technical development of two stage and solid fuel boosters with its ballistic missiles extends their range and technology today and in the future to influence, deter and threatenEurope and critical U.S. bases stationed inEurope."

"It is clearly apparent for President-elect Obama and his new administration to have flexibility, tools and options to deal withIran to maintain peace and stability in theMiddle East."

The current investment in missile defense capabilities must continue to be developed, tested and deployed from the European third site to the U.S. and regional missile defense assets to ensure security and stability for theMiddle East.

"Missile defense will supplement current and future diplomatic and threat reduction efforts as well as give insurance for protection and stability in case of failure of these efforts."

Riki Ellison is available for on-the-record interviews. Call Mike Terrill at 602 885-1955.

SOURCE Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance