Persian Gulf within Iran missile reach

A top commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman are within the full reach of Iranian long-range missiles.

“The IRGC’s surface and sub-surface systems as well as ground-to-sea missiles with very long ranges cover the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman,” Commander of the IRGC’s Navy Rear Admiral Ali Fadawi was quoted by Fars news agency as saying on Saturday.

The admiral also touched upon recent remarks by US Defense Secretary Robert Gates that Iran has upset the balance of power in the region.

“Over the past 31 years, not only has Iran not upset the regional balance and unity, but has come under fire by the enemy for trying to bring Islamic nations closer together,” the top commander added.

He said the killing of millions of innocent people in the region is the fallout from the US-led invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan as well as their crimes in Lebanon and occupied Palestine.

“Americans’ meddling and warmongering in the Middle East has so far upset the balance, shattered tranquility and jeopardized the common interests of the regional nations,” Rear Admiral Fadawi continued.

He pointed out that Mideast countries are “members of a family” because of their common interests and Islamic commonalities.

“Any of the members’ being powerful contributes to the family’s overall strength,” he said, adding Iran is no exception.

The top Iranian commander also spoke of joint regional maneuvers to be staged in the near future.

He said the IRGC has invited the regional countries to hold joint military drills to ensure lasting security and promote unity in the Persian Gulf.

Rear Admiral Fadawi said the regional states have warmly welcomed the proposal.