Does Israel have nuclear weapons? Does Iran have nuclear weapons? What is Iran’s nuclear programme? What would happen if nuclear weapons were used? Should I be worried about nuclear war in the Middle East? Can the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons play a role in the Middle East crisis?

Does Iran have nuclear weapons?

Answer

No. Iran has a well-developed nuclear energy programme which is for non-military purposes. Iran’s nuclear programme has aroused international concern, however, the United States and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) continue to assess that Iran is not currently pursuing weapons-related activities.

Iran’s recent nuclear activities are nevertheless very concerning, as they shorten the period of time it would take to develop a nuclear weapon if it chose to do so. Iran’s enrichment of uranium to higher levels and its refusal to comply with all international inspections and investigations since the U.S. abandoned the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, better known as the Iran nuclear deal, in 2018 and reimposed sanctions, are at issue. Learn more about the JCPOA here.