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Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.
The United States’ decision to involve itself in Israel’s conflict with Iran has significant implications for the global nuclear order. Despite President Donald Trump’s claims of a successful military operation, the chances of Iran remaining non-nuclear indefinitely have decreased, posing a threat to efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.
While the US-Israeli campaign may have been tactically successful, Iran’s nuclear ambitions have not been completely eliminated. Iran still possesses highly enriched uranium and advanced centrifuges, key components for developing nuclear weapons. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about Iran’s ability to weaponize its nuclear capabilities.
The world is currently facing a period of nuclear uncertainty, with major powers like Russia, China, India, and Pakistan increasing their nuclear capabilities. The recent events in the Middle East have brought nuclear weapons back into the spotlight, highlighting the fragility of the global nuclear order.
Israel’s decision to target Iran’s nuclear facilities, with the support of the US, has raised questions about the legality and implications of such actions. Iran’s potential withdrawal from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) could have far-reaching consequences, potentially leading to an arms race in the region.
Efforts to maintain nuclear non-proliferation will require strong leadership and international cooperation. European countries, in particular, need to align their policies with the goals of the NPT and prioritize global security over individual interests. Japan’s criticism of Israel’s actions serves as a model for holding nuclear-armed states accountable for their actions.
As the global nuclear order faces unprecedented challenges, it is essential for world leaders to uphold the principles of non-proliferation and prevent further destabilization. The future of nuclear security depends on the collective efforts of nations to uphold international agreements and prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.
