Ukraine has threatened to sever diplomatic ties with Iran if Russia uses ballistic missiles supplied by Tehran to attack Ukraine. The US has confirmed that Russia has received these missiles, but Iran denies the allegations. This development marks a significant escalation in the conflict, raising concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict.
Ukraine has begun using long-range ballistic missiles, secretly provided by the United States, to strike Russian forces. The new missiles double Ukraine’s striking power, and more are expected to be supplied as part of a new military aid package. The Biden administration initially hesitated over concerns about escalating tensions with Russia, but changed its mind after Russia used long-range missiles supplied by North Korea. The US has also provided billions of dollars in additional aid to Ukraine, including vehicles, ammunition, and anti-tank munitions.
A delegation from North Korea, led by the minister for international trade, has arrived in Iran. This visit raises concerns about the ongoing suspicions of covert military ties between the two nations. Both North Korea and Iran have been under scrutiny for potentially collaborating on ballistic missile programs, including the exchange of technical expertise and production components. The visit occurs amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, following recent attacks and retaliations between Israel and Iran.
On April 14, Iran launched its first direct military offensive against Israel, comprising over 300 Shahed drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. The strike, detected promptly, was intercepted by the US-led Middle East Air Defence Alliance and Israel’s Air Defence Systems. Five munitions penetrated Israeli defenses, causing structural damage but no casualties. Israel retaliated on April 19, striking a military airbase near Isfahan, targeting an air defense radar site near Natanz nuclear facility. Iranian officials claimed to have shot down small drones near Tabriz. Iran’s response, labeled as “sub-threshold,” aimed to restore deterrence while avoiding escalation. The strikes were a strategic gamble, signaling Iran’s growing might and willingness to challenge Israel’s regional dominance. However, tensions remain high, with each side seeking to avoid a full-scale conflict.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised a drill simulating a ‘nuclear counterattack,’ involving ‘super-large multiple rocket units’ that precisely hit a target 352 kilometers away, according to state media. The drill, conducted on Monday, was observed by Kim, who expressed appreciation for the missiles’ accuracy.
