The debate within Iranian hardline circles regarding Iran’s pursuit of a nuclear weapon despite increasing US-Israeli pressure is intensifying and becoming more prominent, reports from the country reveal.
Following the recent death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at the onset of the conflict on February 28, the Revolutionary Guards have gained significant influence, leading to a rise in hardline opinions on Iran’s nuclear strategy, according to two high-ranking Iranian informants.
While Western nations have long suspected Iran of desiring a nuclear weapon or the capability to swiftly develop one, Iran has consistently denied these allegations, citing Khamenei’s prohibition of nuclear arms based on Islamic principles and its adherence to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Although there is currently no concrete plan to alter Iran’s nuclear policy or pursue a nuclear weapon, sources indicate that influential figures within the establishment are challenging the existing stance and advocating for a shift.
The recent military actions by the US and Israel against Iran, occurring amidst negotiations on Tehran’s nuclear program, may have prompted Iranian strategists to reconsider their position, potentially concluding that there are minimal benefits to abstaining from nuclear armament or remaining within the NPT.
The notion of withdrawing from the NPT, previously threatened by hardliners, has gained traction in state media, along with the once-taboo proposition that Iran should actively seek nuclear weapons.
Tasnim News Agency, aligned with the Revolutionary Guards, recently published an article suggesting Iran’s prompt withdrawal from the NPT while emphasizing the continuation of a civilian nuclear program.
Prominent hardline figure Mohammad Javad Larijani, brother of the late official Ali Larijani, advocated for suspending Iran’s NPT membership in a statement quoted by state media, proposing an evaluation of the treaty’s utility with the possibility of rejoining if deemed beneficial.
Public discussions on nuclear policy have amplified, with conservative commentator Nasser Torabi stating on state television that the Iranian populace is calling for decisive action towards nuclear armament, either through development or acquisition.
Behind closed doors, nuclear policy deliberations are reportedly ongoing within ruling circles, with conflicting viewpoints between the more hardline elements, including the Guards, and those within the political hierarchy regarding the prudence of pursuing a nuclear weapon.
