Nuclear exclusivity

The current state of global affairs indicates a significant departure from established norms of diplomacy, international institutions and laws. The very liberal democratic Western nations that were instrumental in creating these frameworks appear to no longer uphold them, as evidenced by Israel's ongoing actions in Palestine and recent attacks on Iran, with US support. This has led to a disruption of the global order, where power increasingly dictates rules and laws. Within this crisis, the politics surrounding nuclear weapons presents a unique challenge. Nations that possess nuclear weapons advocate for others to refrain from acquiring them, a stance that is increasingly perceived as unrealistic.

The rationale provided by Israel and the US for targeting Iranian nuclear sites lacks consistency. Conversely, Israel, which possesses nuclear weapons illegally and has not signed the non-proliferation treaty, elicits little concern from Western nations. This dichotomy in nuclear weapons politics suggests that less powerful nations are left vulnerable, compelled to either submit to dominant powers, face potential attacks or invasions or prepare for conflict. Iran, however, appears to be a formidable adversary, potentially representing the last significant challenge to the regional influence of Israel and the US.

Anwar Sayab Khan

Bannu