Iran said on Tuesday it successfully tested medium range missiles capable of hitting Israel, in response to threats of military action against the country, Iranian media said. Israel says it can attack Iran's nuclear facilities if diplomacy fails to persuade the Islamic Republic to abandon its uranium enrichment program, which Tehran says is entirely peaceful. The U.S. also has not ruled out military action, but require more patience for diplomatic pressure and economic sanctions take effect. Iran announced it had conducted the test launch "Great Prophet 7" on Sunday, the day came fully into force the EU ban on imports of oil from Iran, and after another round of fruitless negotiations between Tehran and world powers on the Iranian nuclear program. The state channel Press TV, which broadcasts in English, said the Shahab 3 missile with a range of 1,300 kilometers - capable of reaching Israel - has been tested with the Shahab 1 and 2 Shabab, which have shorter range. "The main objective of the exercise is to demonstrate the political will of the Iranian nation to defend values and vital national interests," said Hossein Salami, deputy commander of the Revolutionary Guards, according to Press TV. "The maneuvers were a response to the harsh words spoken against Iran," he added, according to Fars. According to Fars, dozens of missiles were fired against simulated air bases, and drones should be tested on Wednesday. Analysts, however, challenge some statements military of Iran, saying the country repeatedly exaggerates its capabilities. The military tests and other attitudes of Iran startle the world oil market.On Monday, Iranian lawmakers have proposed a law requiring the country to try to block the transit of ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the only entrance to the Persian Gulf, causing oil to nations that support the sanctions. Analysts say the project should only become law if it has the backing of the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
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