Iran’s Nuclear Doctrine: Adapting to the Threat of Israel

Iran’s nuclear doctrine may need to be adjusted if Israel poses a severe threat to the country’s survival, according to Adviser to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Kamal Kharazi. While Iran has not yet made a decision to develop nuclear weapons, this stance may change in response to an existential threat. Kharazi emphasized that if Israel were to target Iran’s nuclear facilities, it could prompt a shift in Iran’s deterrence strategy.

General Ahmad Hajtalab of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps also acknowledged the potential need for reassessment of Iran’s nuclear doctrine following a potential Israeli attack. Analysts suggest that Iran is on the verge of acquiring nuclear weapons and could become a nuclear power in the near future if the leadership decides to pursue this path. However, the final decision rests with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In April 2024, Iran launched its first independent attack on Israel, deploying numerous unmanned aerial vehicles, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. The majority of these weapons were intercepted and destroyed by Israeli defenses. Reports from Western media outlets indicated that Israel responded with a limited strike aimed at demonstrating force rather than causing significant harm to Iran. The incident underscored the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, highlighting the potential impact of these conflicts on Iran’s nuclear doctrine.