Overview

• Associated Press analysis of Planet Labs images taken after Sept. 18 shows significant new scorching on the spaceport’s circular pad used for past launches.
• IISS researcher Fabian Hinz says the pattern and intensity of the marks point to a solid-fuel motor and likely use of a blast deflector.
• Iranian lawmaker Mohsen Zanganeh claimed on state TV that an intercontinental ballistic missile was tested, offering no evidence to support the assertion.
• Tehran has not acknowledged any launch, and an erratic contrail and lack of a newly tracked satellite leave the mission’s purpose and outcome unclear.
• The suspected firing occurs as UN sanctions are expected to be reimposed this weekend and after Israeli strikes on Iranian missile infrastructure.