Russia Defends Missile Sale To Iran

Ivanov said the sale of the Tor-M1 missile systems to Iran did not violate international law and would not upset the balance of power in the Middle East.

Russian media reported last week that Iran had agreed to purchase close to 30 mobile air defense systems from Russia in a contract worth more than $700 million.

Israel yesterday criticized the sale, saying it serves the interests of the "most negative elements" in the Middle East. Israel considers Iran the biggest threat to its security in the region.

Tor-M1 missiles are short-range, surface-to-air missiles capable of shooting down both missiles and aircraft.

(AFP/AP)