The International Institute for Strategic Studies suggests that diplomatic measures could be pursued to address the growing challenge posed by Iran's ballistic missiles. The most promising option would be to negotiate a 2,000-kilometre range limit, which would forestall the development of systems that could target Western Europe or North America. However, Tehran is unlikely to commit to verification measures without receiving something in return. One possible bargain could be to allow Iran to continue its satellite-launch programme, under certain conditions, while capping the maximum range of its ballistic missiles. The operational carryover from civilian space launchers to military missile systems is often overstated, but allowing Iran to continue developing and launching large rockets in support of its space programme is not risk-free. The risks can be managed by establishing a clear separation between the two programmes and ensuring that Iran does not use the space programme as a cover for missile development.
