Worried countries in the Middle East are responding to Iran’s nuclear deal with a defensive line: If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.
In response to fears that Tehran’s nuclear program isn’t as benign as the Islamic Republic claims it is, several nations in the past few years have jumpstarted their own nuclear programs, or discussed the possibility.
Despite calls by the International Atomic Energy Agency and the UN, nuclear power is still something that remains widely coveted, especially by those in a region wrought with instability and conflict. Iran’s nuclear program has its Gulf rivals worried about the consequences — and seeking a backup plan.
The potential nuclear deal with the US has done little to belay concerns, shown by the Gulf Cooperation Council’s refusal to attend a Camp David meeting with US President Barack Obama to discuss it. Instead, the proposed deal is creating anxiety among Arab leaders about its lack of policing on Iran in a post-sanctions world.
The race to go nuclear continues. Here’s a rundown of the state of nuclear weapons in the Middle East.