WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- The United States denounced Iran's test of a generation missile on Wednesday, saying the development of ballistic missiles could be used as a delivery vehicle for nuclear weapon.

    "Iran's development of ballistic missiles is contrary to United Nations Security Council resolutions and completely inconsistent with Iran's obligations to the world," White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe said in a statement.

    The United States and other parties in talks on Iran's nuclear program "are committed to a diplomatic path" if Tehran freezes uranium enrichment activities and refrains from further missile tests, according to the spokesman.

    "The Iranian regime should stop the development of ballistic missiles, which could be used as a delivery vehicle for a potential nuclear weapon, immediately," said Johndroe.

    Iranian state television reported a new generation surface-to-surface missile was successfully test-fired in the country on Wednesday morning.

    According to Iran's Defense Minister Mostafa Mohammad Najjar, the missile had a range of about 2,000 kilometers similar to that of Shahab-3, which is believed to have capability to attack Israel.

    Iran says its missile capabilities are "a defensive tool against invasions," with both Israel and the United States worry that Tehran could launch the missiles uploaded with nuclear warheads at Israel.

    The United States has accused Iran of trying to develop nuclear weapons under the cover of a civilian nuclear program. Iran has denied the U.S. charges and insists that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only.