Iran May Soon Declare Itself a Nuclear Power, Experts Warn
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Military experts have told Fox News Digital that there is a distinct possibility Iran could declare itself a nuclear power as soon as this year.
If Iran were to leave the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), it would need at least a year to build a nuclear bomb, experts say.
What Factors Are Contributing to Iran's Potential Nuke Declaration?
- Iran is now enriching uranium to up to 60% purity, which is a significant increase from the 3.67% enrichment level allowed under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.
- Iran has enough material enriched to 60% purity to produce two nuclear weapons if it were to enrich it further.
- Iran has been reducing its stockpile of near-weapons-grade uranium since October 2023, but experts warn that it is still accumulating enriched uranium and could produce weapons-grade uranium within months.
The international deal over Iran's nuclear program, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), has stalled, and Iran has been gradually violating its terms.
The Trump administration withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, and Iran has responded by ramping up its uranium enrichment program to the highest level since before the deal was reached.
The Biden administration has sought to revive the JCPOA, but talks have been stalled since March 2022.
What Would Happen if Iran Declared Itself a Nuclear Power?
- It would be a major escalation of tensions in the Middle East.
- It would likely lead to a new round of sanctions against Iran.
- It could trigger a nuclear arms race in the region.
The international community is closely watching Iran's nuclear program and is urging Iran to comply with its obligations under the NPT.
However, if Iran were to declare itself a nuclear power, it would be a major challenge to the international non-proliferation regime and could have far-reaching consequences for the stability of the Middle East.
Additional Resources:
- Fox News: Iran could declare itself a nuclear power this year, experts warn
- Reuters: Iran nuclear talks with world powers to resume by end-November
- AP News: Iran moving closer to weapons-grade uranium, posing newrisks
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