Amid recent military actions by the United States and Israel, a new and intense debate has emerged within Iran over its nuclear policy. For years, Iran has denied allegations of pursuing nuclear weapons, but now hardline factions are openly calling for a shift in policy. Although there has been no official change in the government’s stance, internal disagreements over the issue are growing. Sources indicate that, particularly in light of recent conflicts, Iran’s decision-makers are re-evaluating their nuclear strategy.
Analysts note that the influential Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has gained greater prominence, strengthening the position of hardline factions. Some leaders believe that, given the current security situation, Iran should accelerate its path toward nuclear capabilities. Discussions about leaving the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) have also surfaced publicly.
State media and analysts report that the idea of withdrawing from the NPT is now receiving more attention than before, with some arguing that remaining in the treaty provides little practical benefit for the country. Several political commentators and hardline leaders have suggested temporarily suspending membership to assess the treaty’s utility for Iran.
Topics that were previously discussed privately or in limited circles are now being debated openly, with some experts calling for steps toward nuclear weapons development. Their reasoning is that, in the current geopolitical climate, strong defensive capabilities are essential for national survival.
However, many analysts caution that this discussion does not necessarily signal a formal policy shift. In the past, Iran has used threats to leave international agreements as a pressure tactic without implementing them. Current public debates may also serve a similar strategic purpose.
Experts believe that Iran has long sought to become a “threshold state,” maintaining the capability to develop nuclear weapons quickly if needed, without actually producing them and facing international sanctions. This approach allows the country to possess technological readiness while avoiding direct confrontation.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has previously declared nuclear weapons forbidden under Islamic law. However, it remains uncertain whether this position will continue unchanged in the future. Leadership transitions and the ongoing conflict may prompt a reassessment of the policy.
At present, Iran’s nuclear policy stands at a critical juncture. Balancing international pressures with internal security concerns is now the country’s biggest challenge.
Demands to build nuclear bomb in Iran are growing stronger: Reuters
