(JNS) Iran appears to be preparing for an unannounced space launch, AP reported.

Satellite images show a rocket on a launch pad at the Imam Khomeini Spaceport in Semnan province in the north of the country, according to an AP report.

“Iran did not acknowledge a forthcoming launch at the spaceport and its mission to the United Nations in New York did not immediately respond to a request for comment,” it added.

Israeli analysts believe that Iran’s space program is cover for the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles, which could threaten Europe in the first stage and potentially North America in later development stages.