Abstract:
Iran’s nuclear programme has created controversy at the regional and global levels. This issue has
created diplomatic tension between Iran and the West. There is a need to assess Iran’s nuclear
programme and the role of the regional and global community associated with this issue. The
objective assessment of such type has to take into account the broader view of the prevailing
geopolitical and security structure in the Southwest Asia, as well as the strategic interests of the US
and her closest allies in the region, including the interests of Israel. There are two perspectives about
Iran’s nuclear programme. First, Iranian leadership claims that its nuclear programme is in complete
conformity with Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) statute and laws. Second, the US and her Western
and regional allies in the Southwest Asia, blame the Iranian leadership in pursuing weapon-oriented
nuclear programme.
The current crisis of Iran’s nuclear programme is the product of several domestic, regional and
international factors. The pattern of interaction between Iran and the regional states is rooted in
history, which also determines the exigencies of their relationship. In fact, history does not grow in
vacuüm. The geostrategic factors have influenced historical forces nurturing the military and
economic environment. No doubt, Iran’s nuclear programme is of serious nature and it could change
or destabilize the regional strategic environment seriously. In the post-Cold War era, Iran’s nuclear
enrichment programme is perhaps one of the most hot button issues in the world. It is one of those
issues, which have polarized the opinion at almost all levels: Domestic, Regional and Global. The
regional and global community perceives Iran’s nuclear programme serious threat to regional and
global non-proliferation efforts. The general thrust of the study is to assess the interests of Iran, in the
light of their great historical character, which does not influence by the pressure tactics and always
stand against the global powers for their rights and independence.