Candidates slam Iran on missile testing

(CNN) - Presumptive Republican presidential nominee John McCain said Wednesday Iran's missile test showcases the need for implementing a more effective missile defense system, while his Democratic counterpart, Barack Obama, said the event highlights the need for more aggressive diplomacy with Tehran.

"Ballistic missile testing coupled with Iran's continued refusal to cease its nuclear activities should unite the international community in efforts to counter Iran's dangerous ambitions," McCain said in a statement. "Iran's missile tests also demonstrate the need for effective missile defense now and in the future, and this includes missile defense in Europe as is planned with the Czech Republic and Poland."

Obama, who has faced criticism for saying he would sit down directly with sworn enemies of the United States, told CBS Wednesday the test emphasizes the need for direct diplomacy.

"What this underscores is the need for a clear policy that is putting the burden on Iran to change behavior. And frankly, we just have not been able to do that the last several years, partly because we're not engaged in direct diplomacy," he said on CBS' "The Early Show."