Washington, February 17 (RHC)-- A top U.S. intelligence official said Thursday that Iran is unlikely to provoke a military conflict, but would respond if attacked.  U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency Director Lieutenant General Ronald Burgess made the comment in testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee in Washington.

The intelligence official said that Iran "remains committed to strengthening its naval, nuclear and missile capabilities."  He noted that Iran can close the Strait of Hormuz "at least temporarily and may launch missiles against United States forces and allies in the region if it is attacked."

But the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency director said that Iran "is unlikely to initiate or intentionally provoke a conflict."

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