France Urged Not to Raise Iran Defense Issues

A lawmaker has warned French politicians not to raise the issue of negotiations over Iran's military capabilities in their planned visit to Tehran.

In a recent talk with ICANA, Amir Khojasteh said, "It is suggested that French officials not spend their time talking about such issues in their upcoming visit to Tehran since it would have no benefit for them whatsoever."

"We have always said our missile capability are for defensive purposes only and will not be ever used [in an aggression] against any country," he added.

France has been the vocal voice raising the issue of talks over Tehran's missile program with many analysts saying the European nation is trying to play the role of the "good cop" against the harsh rhetoric of US President Donald Trump boldly saying that Iran has no right to have any missiles.

"Do they allow us to ask them anything about their defense and military capabilities? If not, then why do they think they are entitled to ask other nations such questions?"

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian was scheduled to visit Tehran in early January but his trip has been postponed to a future date, according to the French presidency.