US calls Iran rocket launch 'unfortunate'

Washington: The White Houseon Monday said Iran's rocket launch was "unfortunate" and would only further isolate Tehran from the international community.

Iran launched a rocket designed to send a research satellite into orbit to mark the opening of its first space centre, Iranian state television said.

"It's unfortunate Iran continues to test ballistic missiles. This regime continues to take steps that only further isolate it and the Iranian people from the international community," White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe said.

In Tehran, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad declared: "We witness today [Monday] that Iran has taken its first step in space very firmly, precisely and with awareness. Building and firing a satellite is a major and valuable achievement."