Iran's Nuclear Ambitions
Although its relationship with the West has been strained over the last few decades, Iran claimed to have conformed to the non-proliferation treaty (NPT) it signed in 1968. The treaty's main purpose is to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and offers non-nuclear signatory states peaceful applications of nuclear technology in return for not acquiring nuclear weapons.
A good example of abusing the NPT is the case of North Korea. Despite having signed the Treaty in the early 90's, they recently withdrew and announced in February 2005 they have nuclear weapons.
That's why when the more radical newly elected Iranian government claims their only interest in nuclear technology is as a source of cheap energy (despite having the third largest oil reserves in the world!), one has to be concerned. After all, hasn't their new president called for Israel to be "wiped off the map"? Strong actions are require against these rogue states, because if the Iranians have the bomb, who's next? The Syrians?
On the other hand, does Iran as a sovereign state not have the right to determine how to use its own resources? Do foreign countries have the right to meddle in the affairs of a self-governing state even if they might pose a security threat? You decide.
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