Iran has not yet halted uranium enrichment, a process by which atomic weapons can be proliferated. The IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) stated, “Contrary to the decisions of the Security Council, Iran has not suspended its enrichment related activities.” However the UN watchdog recently reported that Iran has slowed production which could be a step in the right direction.
It is a difficult situation because there is no way to prove that Iran is developing uranium for atomic purposes. It is entirely possible that they are pursuing this development for nuclear fuel to help provide energy for the country . . . however this is terribly unrealistic. Do you believe a nation would risk UN sanctions and economic embargos just to make nuclear energy? They must have greater aspirations in mind if they are willing to risk the heat they are receiving over this issue.
The UN watchdog commented on the slowdown of Uranium enrichment stating, “As we’ve seen, the pace has slowed down considerably since the time of the last report.”
Ali Asghar Soltanieh, Iran’s Ambassador stated that Iran will comply with IAEA regulations provided that they do not infringe on the Non Proliferation Treaty. Iran clearly believes that they have a right to be developing these materials. To read more about the Non Proliferation Treaty click here.
Should we be pursuing more aggressive action to make sure that Iran complies with UN demands to stop uranium enrichment? What pros and cons do you see to taking physical action to ensure that Iran cooperates?
