Nuclear Armed Iran: Implication for Middle East Security
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26740/ijss.v6n2.p181-205Abstract
This study investigates the implication of nuclear armed Iran on the Middle East security. The Middle East issues have become more interconnected and heated international debate, connecting the region’s security system to the international security system. Nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament in the Middle East are a sine qua non for security and stability in the region. Addressing them is of paramount importance and urgency if further breakouts are to be prevented. This has to be done in a comprehensive manner without prejudice or preference. The renewed JCPOA negotiations should be a stepping stone in the direction of establishing a Nuclear Weapon Free Middle East. This study adopted the historical research design and was anchored on deterrence theory. The study revealed among other things that deterrence and regional hegemony are two major factors that make the nuclear weapons attractive for the Islamic Republic. The study concludes that the current asymmetry of power distribution in the Middle East has pushed Iran towards the development of a nuclear weapon capability. It is the most effective way to guarantee the security and survival of the regime and state and recommends among others that Iran-US relations matters most and if they remain enemies, unsubstantial improvements in international relations in the Persian Gulf and the Middle East are unlikely to take place. The UN should be more proactive and assertive in supporting efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability to the Middle East, including a possible regional security framework.
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