Iran's Missile Programme Not Part of 14-Point Agreement With US, Says President Masoud Pezeshkian

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed on Tuesday that Iran’s missile programme is completely excluded from the newly established 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States. Speaking during a diplomatic visit to Pakistan, Pezeshkian emphasized that the nation’s ballistic capabilities are non-negotiable and will not be included in any future diplomatic frameworks with Washington.

Missile Programme Deemed Non-Negotiable

During a press conference in Islamabad, Pezeshkian firmly rejected any connection between Iran's defensive military assets and the recent diplomatic breakthrough. "The discussion over our missiles does not exist in the MoU, and it never will," Pezeshkian told reporters, according to video released by the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB). US Eases Restrictions on Iranian Oil Exports Through August 21 Amid Ongoing Nuclear and Maritime Security Talks.

The Iranian president defended the missile infrastructure as an essential deterrent necessary for national survival. He stated that without these defensive capabilities, the United States and Israel would have "devastated" the country.

Details of the 14-Point MoU

Pezeshkian's remarks follow the recent conclusion of technical talks held in Switzerland, which led to the formulation of the 14-point agreement aimed at de-escalating tensions in the Middle East. The official text of the document, recently released by Washington, outlines specific regional and economic parameters.

According to senior U.S. administration officials, the MoU focuses on reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz, easing certain economic and financial restrictions currently placed on Tehran, and establishing a framework for future technical negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear programme.

The published text confirms that the agreement lacks any provisions restricting Iran’s conventional missile development. The sole weapons-related mandate requires Tehran to uphold its commitment not to procure or develop nuclear weapons. US-Iran Negotiations End, Technical Talks To Continue After Donald Trump Shakes Talks With Threats.

Shifting U.S. Positions and Context

The exclusion of conventional weaponry marks a notable shift in U.S. foreign policy. While Washington had previously cited Iran's ballistic missile advancement as a primary source of regional friction, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated a change in approach during the recent G7 summit in France, stating that "missiles aren't the problem."

Pezeshkian’s statements in Pakistan come amidst broader bilateral discussions with Pakistani leadership focused on regional stability, security cooperation, and trade following the implementation of the U.S.-Iran diplomatic roadmap.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 24, 2026 08:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).