Publication

This paper argues that regardless of the outcome of non-proliferation talks between Iran and the P5+1 countries, it is almost certain that Tehran will retain at least a latent nuclear capability, i.e., the ability to produce nuclear weapons on short order should it decide to do so. The author then identifies the potential threats to international peace and security posed by nuclear latency in Iran, even if the Islamic Republic refrains from building nuclear weapons. Finally, it provides recommendations to US policy makers on how to mitigate against the risks posed by a potentially nuclear capable Iran.