Nuclear Proliferation: Lessons Learned from the Iraqi Case

Abstract

The nuclear weapons inspection regime implemented in Iraq following the United Nations coalition victory in Desert Storm is the most intrusive in history. Important conclusions about the current non-proliferation regime can therefore be determined from a study of Iraq's progress. This thesis examines Iraq's efforts to acquire nuclear weapons. The supply side of the equation is also studied, with a concentration upon the contributions of NATO nations. The strategic culture of Iraq is discussed, in an effort to discover why Iraq sought nuclear weapons. Finally, policy prescriptions are advanced. The current non- proliferation regime needs to be improved if the spread of nuclear weapons is to be halted, or even slowed. The most promising way to improve this regime is to involve the U.N. Special Commission and the U.N. Security Council in the management of the problem of nuclear proliferation.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1992
Accession Number
ADA260903

Entities

People

  • Todd A. Dixon

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Counter WMD

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Arms Control
  • Arms Control Treaties
  • Chemical Weapons
  • Ethnic Groups
  • Intergovernmental Organizations
  • International Law
  • International Organizations
  • International Relations
  • National Governments
  • National Security
  • Nuclear Bombs
  • Nuclear Energy
  • Nuclear Materials
  • Nuclear Weapons
  • Treaties
  • United States

Fields of Study

  • Political science

Readers

  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Strategic Security Studies