18.3 C
London
Friday, September 29, 2023
More
    HomeNewsAsiaIsrael launches spy satellite days after Saudi-Iran deal

    Israel launches spy satellite days after Saudi-Iran deal

    - Advertisement -

    Israeli has enhanced its capacity for spying on its neighbours after successfully launching a new version of its Ofek spy satellite today. The launch, planned months in advance, was overseen by Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, whose presence is seen as an indication that he will be staying in office despite his dismissal by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the weekend.

    The Ofek-13 satellite was manufactured by state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries. It is the latest in a series of locally produced satellites, the first of which was blasted into orbit in 1988. The satellite was launched on a Shavit missile over the Mediterranean Sea as a precaution against sensitive technology falling into the hands of hostile Middle East neighbours should there be a malfunction.

    READ: Israel police rejects minister’s demand to form National Guard under his control

    Gallant hailed the launch as “yet another important example of the Israeli defence establishment’s groundbreaking innovation.” He said that the new satellite will enhance around-the-clock regional monitoring as the country braces for a possible showdown with Iran.

    “Israel has already proved its diverse space capabilities many times and is one of very few countries to possess such capabilities,” added the minister, “capabilities that we continue to develop and strengthen.”

    READ: Russia to provide Iran with advanced satellite, report says

    Israel is one of a small number of countries in the world that operate reconnaissance satellites, giving it advanced intelligence-gathering capabilities. As of 2020, that list included Iran, which has also successfully launched a spy satellite into orbit.

    The launch in Israel comes a couple of weeks after Saudi and Iran renewed relations following Chinese mediation. The potential for peace between the regional rivals is seen by Israel as a major threat to its security. As part of the deal, China agreed to share its large spy satellites with Riyadh and Tehran.

    Middle East Monitor

    - Advertisement -

    LEAVE A REPLY

    Please enter your comment!
    Please enter your name here

    Keep exploring...

    Complete Guide to Eid Prayer: Rituals, Cleanliness, Process, and More

    Eid Prayer is a significant festival in Islam, marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. One of the most important aspects...

    Eid Al-Fitr: A Comprehensive Guide to Recommended Acts on the Day of Celebration

    Eid Al-Fitr, often referred to as "Eid," is one of the most significant and joyous festivals in the Islamic calendar. It marks the end...

    Related Stories

    Uttar Pradesh Teacher Arrested for Alleged Communal Incident in Classroom

    In a recent development, the Uttar Pradesh Police apprehended a schoolteacher on Thursday for...

    Inspiring Journey: Guinean Student’s Epic Bike Ride to Secure a Spot at a Top Islamic University

    In a remarkable display of determination, Mamadou Safaiou Barry, a young Guinean student, embarked...

    12th Islamic World Ministers of Culture Conference Endorses Doha Declaration to Revitalize Cultural Endeavors

    Under the distinguished patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani,...

    Agong Urges Muslims to Embrace Prophet Muhammad’s Virtues on Maulidur Rasul

    In a heartfelt address on Maulidur Rasul, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa...

    Assessing Nehru’s Impact on the Plight of Indian Muslims

    Pratinav Anil's latest literary endeavor, "Another India: The Making of the World's Largest Muslim...

    President Wickremesinghe Encourages Unity Among Muslims to Address National Challenges

    In a special address commemorating Milad-un-Nabi, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has called upon the Muslim...

    Iran Expresses Outrage Over Holy Qur’an Desecration in Netherlands

    In an official statement released on Thursday, the spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Foreign...

    India’s Treatment of Muslims: A Concerning Pattern of Alienation

    In his inaugural address to the United Nations General Assembly, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul...

    Explore More Articles

    Welcome to the enlightening realm of our Islamic Articles Page – a digital sanctuary where knowledge, spirituality, and the rich tapestry of Islamic culture converge. In an era where information flows ceaselessly and the world seems to spin faster each day, our platform stands as a steadfast beacon of wisdom and reflection.