Iran’s ballistic missile program was not included in U.S.-Iran ceasefire discussions, Israeli and Western officials said Monday, raising security concerns across the Middle East. Diplomats confirmed negotiators focused on Hormuz access, uranium stockpiles and sanctions relief while treating missiles as a separate issue.
Israeli officials warned that excluding missiles leaves a primary strike capability intact even if nuclear material is removed. European allies have privately urged Washington to address shorter-range systems that threaten Gulf bases.
Tehran has historically resisted limits on missiles, framing them as defensive deterrents. CNN reported that U.S. negotiators prioritized stopping active hostilities and reopening shipping lanes before expanding the agenda.
Analysts said any deal without missile provisions may face stiff opposition in the U.S. Congress and Knesset. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has publicly reiterated readiness to respond to attacks on its arsenal.
Gulf states host U.S. bases vulnerable to Iranian missile strikes, amplifying regional stakes. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard displayed mobile launchers in state media segments aired Monday. Western intelligence estimates put the missile arsenal in the thousands, including variants capable of reaching Israel.
U.S. intelligence briefings to allies this week will address missile gaps in the draft framework. Iran’s defense minister said missiles are non-negotiable in televised remarks aired hours after diplomatic reports.
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Sources:
https://www.cnn.com/2026/05/25/world/live-news/iran-war-us-peace-deal