Iran’s nuclear programme refers to its long-standing efforts to develop nuclear technology, officially for peaceful purposes such as energy generation, medical research, and scientific advancement. However, concerns over possible weaponisation have made it a central issue in global non-proliferation and West Asia geopolitics.
Background and Evolution
- Iran’s nuclear programme began in the 1950s under the U.S.-backed Atoms for Peace initiative.
- It expanded after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, though international cooperation reduced significantly.
- From the early 2000s, Western countries raised concerns about undeclared nuclear facilities and uranium enrichment activities.
Key Nuclear Facilities
- Natanz: Main uranium enrichment facility.
- Fordow: Underground enrichment site near Qom, highly fortified.
- Arak: Heavy water reactor (modified under international agreements).
- Bushehr: Nuclear power plant for electricity generation (with Russian assistance).
Uranium Enrichment
- Uranium enrichment is central to the controversy:
- Low enrichment (3–5%) → civilian nuclear power.
- Higher enrichment (20% and above) → closer to weapons-grade.
- Iran has enriched uranium up to 60% purity, significantly beyond civilian needs but below weapons-grade (≈90%).
International Concerns
- Fear that civilian enrichment capabilities could enable a breakout to nuclear weapons.
- Iran is a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as a non-nuclear-weapon state, which prohibits it from developing nuclear weapons.
- Concerns intensified due to:
- Limited cooperation with inspectors.
- Stockpiling of enriched uranium.
- Advanced centrifuge development.
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), 2015
- An agreement between Iran and P5+1 (US, UK, France, Russia, China + Germany).
- Key provisions:
- Caps on uranium enrichment levels and stockpiles.
- Reduction in centrifuges.
- Enhanced inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
- Sanctions relief for Iran.
- In 2018, the U.S. unilaterally withdrew, reimposing sanctions.
- Iran gradually rolled back its commitments in response.
Role of the IAEA
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) monitors Iran’s nuclear activities.
- Reports indicate reduced transparency and restricted access at certain sites.
- Ongoing disputes over undeclared nuclear material and safeguards compliance.
Iran’s Stated Position
- Iran maintains:
- Nuclear weapons are un-Islamic, citing a religious decree (fatwa).
- Programme is solely for peaceful and civilian purposes.
- Enrichment is a sovereign right under the NPT.
Regional and Global Implications
- Heightened tensions in West Asia, particularly with Israel and Gulf countries.
- Risk of a regional arms race.
- Impact on global energy markets and maritime security.
- Central issue in US–Iran relations and broader great-power diplomacy.
Conclusion
Iran’s nuclear programme lies at the intersection of sovereignty, security, non-proliferation, and geopolitics. While Iran asserts peaceful intent, enrichment levels, reduced transparency, and breakdown of diplomatic frameworks continue to raise global concerns. The issue remains a key challenge for international diplomacy and regional stability.
