IRAN’S NUCLEAR PROGRAMME: ITS REGIONAL AND GLOBAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Iran’s nuclear programme has created controversy at the regional and global levels. This issue has created diplomatic tension between Iran and the West. There is a need to assess Iran’s nuclear programme and the role of the regional and global community associated with this issue. The objective assessment of such type has to take into account the broader view of the prevailing geopolitical and security structure in the Southwest Asia, as well as the strategic interests of the US and her closest allies in the region, including the interests of Israel. There are two perspectives about Iran’s nuclear programme. First, Iranian leadership claims that its nuclear programme is in complete conformity with Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) statute and laws. Second, the US and her Western and regional allies in the Southwest Asia, blame the Iranian leadership in pursuing weapon-oriented nuclear programme. The current crisis of Iran’s nuclear programme is the product of several domestic, regional and international factors. The pattern of interaction between Iran and the regional states is rooted in history, which also determines the exigencies of their relationship. In fact, history does not grow in vacuüm. The geostrategic factors have influenced historical forces nurturing the military and economic environment. No doubt, Iran’s nuclear programme is of serious nature and it could change or destabilize the regional strategic environment seriously. In the post-Cold War era, Iran’s nuclear enrichment programme is perhaps one of the most hot button issues in the world. It is one of those issues, which have polarized the opinion at almost all levels: Domestic, Regional and Global. The regional and global community perceives Iran’s nuclear programme serious threat to regional and global non-proliferation efforts. The general thrust of the study is to assess the interests of Iran, in the light of their great historical character, which does not influence by the pressure tactics and always stand against the global powers for their rights and independence.