Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Iran is aggressively seeking nuclear technology that could be used for making weaponsand its quest has set off alarms throughout the world. This widespread concern stems in part from Irans uncertain intentions and recent history. Will it remain a revolutionary power determined to subvert its Sunni Arab neighbors, destroy Israel, and spread theocratic government to other lands? Or would an Iran with nuclear weapons merely defend its territory from foreign aggression and live in peace with its neighbors? Are the countrys leaders and society willing to negotiate limits on nuclear capability and normalize relations with the West, or will they resist accommodation? Irans Nuclear Ambitions provides a rare, balanced look into the motivations, perceptions, and domestic politics swirling around Iran. Shahram Chubin, an Iranian-born security expert, details the recent history of Irans nuclear program and diplomacy. He argues that the central problem is not nuclear technology, but rather Irans behavior as a revolutionary state, with ambitions that collide with the interests of its neighbors and the West. Topics include: The view from Tehran Irans nuclear energy rationale, domestic politics, and decisionmaking Sources of concern, including the nature of Irans regime, its nuclear infrastructure, missile development, and terrorism Irans negotiating strategy The international response Iran and regional security, including the U.S. as a threat and rival, Irans regional ambitions, and Israel Policy options