Moscow, Tehran defend weapons deal

MOSCOW, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- Russia and Iran are defending their arms deal as defense-related, after news reports highlighted the billion dollar sale.

The Xinhua news agency reports the two countries inked a deal in November for Russia to supply the weapons.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mikhail Kamynin said he wouldn't comment on specifics, in keeping with Russian policy not to discuss military contracts, but said the deal complies with international standards "including the sphere of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction."

Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said the deal is not unique. He said Iran would not stop purchasing defense arms and doesn't see the need for a ban.