Iran shows off rocket launch to raise pressure in nuclear deal talks

At the end of 2021 Iran’s reinvigorated space programme showed off a new rocket launch, sending a message to western powers in negotiations with Tehran over the future of its nuclear programme. State television showed what it said was the successful launch of a Simorgh (which translates as Phoenix) rocket, carrying three satellites. It took off from
the Imam Khomeini Spaceport, where preparations for a launch had been observed by
western powers’ own satellites in mid-December.

The success was limited — the launch may have failed to reach sufficient speed to release the three satellites into orbit, but the rocket itself attained a height of 290 miles (470 kilometres). Western powers have been monitoring the Iranian space programme closely, saying it is “dual use” — that as well as being intended as part of genuine attempt to launch satellites, it is also ballistic missile technology.

Since President Raisi {an ultra hardline Iranian] was elected in June, Iran has pursued a strategy of ramping up its demands at the talks while at the same time pursuing an aggressive expansion of its nuclear programme. These rockets fired into space with satellites are more about testing their missile abilities and showcasing them to the world. If you can fire a rocket into space successfully you can fire a missile at another country. The nuclear talks are still in deadlock and something at some point will have to give.

The Bible says that the Medes (Iranians) will be stirred up at the time of the end. It also says they have a fascination with missiles and rockets. We are told they care nothing for silver and gold – they are driven by an ideology. Their missiles are used and
bring destruction. Iran is the power behind the initial inner ring war around Israel.

Behold, I will stir up the Medes against them, which shall not regard silver; and as for gold, they shall not delight in it. Their bows also shall dash the young men to pieces; and they shall have no pity on the fruit of the womb; their eye shall not spare children. (Isaiah 13:17-18)

Andy Walton

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