Iran on Monday hailed Russia’s decision to lift a ban on supplying Iran with sophisticated S-300 air defense missile systems as a step towards "lasting security" in the region.

Iran on Monday hailed Russia's decision to lift a ban on supplying Iran with sophisticated S-300 air defense missile systems as a step towards "lasting security" in the region.

"The development of bilateral cooperation (with Russia) and with neighboring countries in various fields can be very effective for lasting stability and security in the region," Defense Minister Hussein Dehghan said, quoted by state news agency IRNA.

Pentagon slams Russian move to sell missiles to Iran
   
The US military expressed concern Monday after Russia lifted its ban on supplying its advanced S-300 anti-aircraft missile system to Iran.

"Our opposition to these sales is long and public. We believe it's unhelpful," Pentagon spokesman Colonel Steve Warren told reporters.