WASHINGTON, July 9 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Wednesday that the United States and Iran are not close to a military confrontation after Iran test-fired long and medium range missiles.

    When asked if the two countries are close to a military confrontation, Gates said, "No I don't think so."

U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates holds a news briefing at the Pentagon in Washington, June 5, 2008. (Xinhua/Reuters File Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    "The reality is there is a lot of signaling going on, but everybody recognizes what the consequences of any kind of a conflict would be," Gates said.

    "And I would tell you that this government is working hard to make sure the diplomatic and economic approach to dealing with Iran and trying to get the Iranian government to change its policy is the strategy and is the approach that continues to dominate," he said.

    Iran test-fired nine long and medium range missiles Wednesday and sparked U.S. criticism.

    The United States has accused Iran of trying to develop nuclear weapons, a charge denied by Iran. Moreover, Iran has vowed to retaliate if it is attacked by Israel or the United States.