Abstract
Iran is on the centre stage of international nuclear politics as its nuclear
programme is suspected to be weapons oriented. Its nuclear facilities face the
threat of a strike from Israel or the United States. Economic sanctions have
already been imposed on Iran to restrict the progress of its programme.
Pakistan, already beset with problems as a front line state in the “war on
terror” is naturally wary of any new conflict in its immediate neighbourhood.
Pakistan supports the world community on its stand that Iran, as it has
repeatedly asserted and assured, keeps its nuclear programme committed to
peaceful purposes. However it is doubtful if a strike against its facilities can
deter Iran from making a weapon if it is so determined. A nuclear armed
Iran is a plausible prospect therefore. Pakistan and Iran have a history of
cordial relationship since 1947. However, this relationship has not been as
smooth since the Iranian revolution. With the world opposed to the Iranian
weapon and the possibility of a nuclear Iran one day materialising Pakistan
would need to tread very carefully as there would be risks as well as
opportunities. This paper discusses the policy options for Pakistan if Iran
acquires a nuclear weapon capability.
Shams uz Zaman . (2012) Prospects Of A Nuclear Armed Iran And Policy Options For Pakistan, IPRI Journal, Volume-12, Issue-1.
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