Iran's decisions to acquire nuclear weapons

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Iran's decisions to acquire nuclear weapons

Introduction to Study

The purpose of this study is to understand Iran's decision to acquire nuclear weapons. The study will be divided into four sections. The first is the introduction which will cover the background of the study. The second is the literature review, in this section relevant studies and theories will be presented in order to determine the factors that led Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. The third section is the methodology, and the fourth section is the results and analysis.

Part I: Background to Study

There are several primal reasons that cause nations to embark on nuclear programs. The most obvious explanation can be the need to counterbalance the strength of other states. Nuclear weapons are an ideal choice for all weaker nations since it is relatively cheaper than conventional forces and it also provides instant security. Receiving instant security was the case for countries like Iran and China. Their nuclear weapon acquisition is a direct product of constant threats or the increased distress with Western countries particularly the United States. In the lineup with fear is the need to secure oneself through power and influence. With nuclear capabilities even an inferior state is capable of becoming a formidable enemy. Another reason behind such a choice can be due to international prestige. It is through increased prestige offers recognition, influence and diplomatic clout, all of which are crucial reasons behind a state's operations and provides the ability to survive within a global context. Through the establishment of nuclear weapons and possessing them requires a great deal of resources and skilled labor, scientists, engineers and technicians which is the perfect way to show the world the country's wealth. The times are changing now and with the advent of better technologies and improved warfare methodologies countries with the capability to develop and maintain highly advanced weaponry are those that are able to sustain within the global environment. Such practices are also critical for successfully boosting the country's image. Iran's development of nuclear facilities has raised a lot of questions and there are many questions about the purpose behind the production of nuclear weapons and whether it is for the purpose of showing off its capabilities or to actually threaten countries. Threats of preemptive strikes, retaliations, and nuclear weapon development bring speculations to the foreground about today's tensions between Iran and the West which might result in an escalation to the hostilities leading to a third World War. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iran may be developing nuclear weapons. Iranian government maintains their stand that its enrichment program has always been exclusively for peaceful purposes; as noted, the Iranian government says that it plans to expand its reliance on nuclear power in order to generate electricity. The concern about such development became great since Iran has been secretive about its nuclear program; Tehran hindered the IAEA investigation by failing to disclose numerous nuclear activities, destroying evidence, and making false statements to the ...