Leaders in six non-nuclear countries have openly explored the idea of developing their own nuclear weapons, raising concerns about a potential new nuclear arms race, according to the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Rafael Grossi, the director general of the IAEA, expressed worry that some of the 191 countries that signed the 1970 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) might violate the agreement, leading to a possible chain reaction where up to 20 nations could seek nuclear capabilities.
Countries like Poland, South Korea, and Japan have debated the idea of acquiring nuclear weapons, while officials in Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Sweden have indicated they could consider such a move if global instability rises and NATO weakens.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Grossi said, “There are significant countries in Europe, Asia Minor, and the Far East engaging in public discussions on this matter. The concept of ‘friendly proliferation’ is being mentioned, raising serious concerns as having over 20 nuclear-armed states could pose extreme dangers.”
Grossi emphasized that a nuclear arms race is his greatest fear, stating, “There is a risk of a breakdown in the system leading to a domino effect. The current situation is very fragile.”
The United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, and China are the only five countries recognized as nuclear-weapon states under the NPT. Among the world’s 12,300+ nuclear warheads, Russia holds 5459, the US 5277, and the UK 225, as reported by the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk hinted at Poland’s potential pursuit of nuclear weapons while emphasizing the country’s commitment to nuclear security. South Korea has seen a high level of public support for nuclear development, with 76% in favor based on a survey by the Asan Institute for Policy Studies.
While some South Korean officials have mentioned the possibility of nuclear weapons, the country’s Foreign Minister stressed the commitment to non-proliferation. In Japan, there have been discussions on acquiring nuclear weapons due to security concerns, although official policy remains unchanged.
Turkey and Saudi Arabia have also hinted at the prospect of pursuing nuclear weapons based on regional developments. In Sweden, the Prime Minister has ruled out having nuclear weapons during peacetime but suggested a different stance in wartime scenarios.
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