Iran claims it has successfully launched a new satellite into space. But never mind the satellite -- the launch is intended to advance Iran's ballistic missile program.

Iran denies this. Its regime claims that this and other satellites are intended to improve the Islamic Republic's understanding of science and advance its national pride.

They are lying.

The underlying motivation of the Iranian hardliners is achieving a capability that deters enemies and expands Khomeini's revolution. That means an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program joined to nuclear weapons.

And ICBMs are exactly why Iran keeps sending satellites into space.

Each launch provides more information on how to do so better the next time. And these launches are the necessary precursor for any effective ICBM capability. To successfully achieve a stable sub-orbital path to target, an ICBM needs advanced engine, guidance, stabilization, and warhead re-entry systems. Iran knows that if it is ever to reach a credible ICBM power, it will first have to learn the intricacies of each various stage.

Launching satellites is the perfect way to learn.

In turn, the U.S. must oppose these efforts.

As I explained last week, the U.S. must prioritize the restraint of Iranian ICBM development. Doing so will require aggressive diplomatic action, military pressure, and clear leadership from the United States. Absent that leadership, Europe will simply accept the continuation of Iran's advancement in weapons technology. After all, the Europeans are relishing the opportunity to cut major business deals with Tehran.

The U.S. should also employ a covert action program to disrupt Iranian ICBM research. There's a precedent here. During the early years of the Obama administration, President Obama authorized a covert action program to debilitate Iran's centrifuge development. That effort put Iran's nuclear capabilities back by about a year.

Regardless, if nothing else, today's satellite launch is another warning to America. Iran is showing that it is determined to follow in the footsteps of its partner, North Korea. Unfortunately, Iran's political philosophy means that were it ever to achieve nuclear ICBM capabilities it would not be restrainable. It would use those weapons to blackmail and blow up its way to hegemony in the Middle East.

Don't believe me?

Just look at what Iran does now in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, and the United States.