Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad announced on Wednesday that his country successfully launched a long-range Sajil-2 rocket, a missile with a 2,500km (1,500 mile) range.

The Iranian leader was present at the testing facility and observed the launch, reporting an accurate hit, with the Sajil-2 missile striking its intended target. Ahmadinejad did not detail the range of the missile, but on November 12th, his defense minister announced a new longer-range missile which �is much better than the Shihab-3�.

Iranian television broadcasted the launch, and leaders reported a large measure of success as the program advances. Ahmadinejad also used the opportunity to express Tehran�s commitment to the continuation of its nuclear program.

US Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said the Sajjil-2 surface-to-surface missile’s range most likely was about 1,200 to 1,500 miles, and “it was a successful flight test.”

An anonymous �Jerusalem source� quoted by the daily Yisrael HaYom stated the launch was indeed a partial success, adding there is reason for concern � pointing out the missile also presents a strategic threat to Europe as well.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)