Mojtaba’s nuclear position unclearThe calls to pursue a nuclear bomb grew louder with Israel’s unprecedented military operation against Iran last year which killed several of the country’s military and nuclear leaders. “A reversal of Iran’s nuclear doctrine and policies, including a shift away from previous considerations, is likely and conceivable,” said Ahmad Haqtalab, the IRGC commander responsible for protecting Iran’s nuclear facilities, in 2024. Building a nuclear weapon hinges on a reversal of the fatwa, access to highly enriched uranium, and the capability to build a functioning bomb. But whether it’s the potential creation of a crude device, known colloquially as a “dirty bomb,” or building a more sophisticated nuclear bomb, deterrence isn’t guaranteed. Back in 2018, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was clear, saying “Without a doubt, if Iran developed a nuclear bomb, we would follow suit as soon as possible.”

Source: Egypt Independent March 29, 2026 14:22 UTC