Iran's Nuclear Program: Energy or Weapons?
Abstract
Claims by Iran that its current nuclear program is aimed at providing an additional energy resource to be used for peaceful purposes is not supported by their actions. Iran presents a threat to the Middle East region and the security of the United States, according to the 2006 staff report of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence under the U.S. House of Representatives. This is due to Iran's past and current activities involving threatening statements made by President Ahmadinejad, covert advances in its nuclear program, support of various terrorist organizations, and resistance to international negotiations concerning these activities. Iran has deliberately concealed its uranium enrichment program disregarding its agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability. Iran also possesses additional capabilities that threaten regional and international security to include its offensive chemical weapons research and development, biological weapons program, and the fact that it has the largest inventory of ballistic missiles in the Middle East. This last capability, coupled with the others, presents a serious threat to the region. In addition, Iran's continuing support of terrorist organizations, including the ongoing insurgency in Iraq with "funding, training, and weapons" is not reflective of the actions of a peaceful nation. On the subject of nuclear weapons, "Iran's willingness to endure international condemnation, isolation, and economical disruptions in order to carry out nuclear activities covertly, indicates Iran is developing nuclear weapons."
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 19, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA499028
Entities
People
- S. Sciple
Organizations
- Marine Corps University