Iran has successfully test-fired a long-range, improved Sejil 2 missile, state television reported on Wednesday.

Al Alam, Iran's Arabic-language satellite television, said the Sejil missile had a longer range than the Shahab missile, which Iranian officials in the past have said can reach targets 2,000 km (1,250 miles) away.

That would put Israel and US bases in the Gulf within reach.

The missile test coincides with increased tension over Iran's nuclear programme, which the West fears is aimed at making bombs. Iran denies the charge.

Neither Israel nor the US have ruled out military action if diplomacy fails to resolve the row. Iran has vowed to retaliate for any attack. – Reuters