Iran 'Test Fires' New Missile

An Iranian Army soldier stands guard on a military speed boat during navy exercises in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran says it has successfully test fired a medium-range surface-to-air missile during navy war games taking place near the Strait of Hormuz on January 1.

The official IRNA news agency quoted naval commander, Mahmud Mousavi, as saying it was the first time Iran had tested the missile, which he claimed was "domestically designed and built."

The test comes a day after he denied earlier state media reports that Iran had test-fired long-range missiles on December 31.

The missile's launch and the war games come at a time when Western nations are increasing pressure over Tehran's nuclear program.

Iranian officials have repeatedly threatened to close the strategic oil route through the Strait of Hormuz if more sanctions are imposed.

compiled from agency reports