Western governments have long argued that space-launch know-how is inherently dual-use, overlapping with technologies relevant to long-range missile development.

The Khayyam satellite would give Tehran the ability to monitor Israel, American troop movements and sensitive facilities throughout the Mideast and Persian Gulf.

Russia will soon be providing Iran with an advanced satellite system that will vastly enhance Tehran's ability to monitor Israel, American forces in Iraq, Persian Gulf refineries, and other sensitive spots.

The Ofek 10 launch served as a reminder that the Netanyahu government is not succumbing to international inaction with regard to the Islamic Republic.