In 1974, Iran invested USD 1 billion in a French uranium enrichment plant. In return, Iran gained the right to 10 percent of the enriched uranium output.
Tehran: The nuclear program of Iran has become a matter of global discussion. Many countries like the United States, Israel, and several western nations have accused Iran of attempting to develop nuclear weapons. To recall, a few days ago, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that a weakened Iran in the Middle East might pursue nuclear weapons. It is important to note that Israel has always seen Iran’s nuclear program as a threat to its very existence.
Concerns over the potential development of nuclear weapons have led the US to impose stringent sanctions on Iran. However, the question remains: who provided Iran with nuclear technology?
Understanding Iran’s Nuclear Program
There are several nuclear research sites in Iran. The country also has two uranium mines, a research reactor, and uranium processing facilities where enrichment takes place. It is important to note that while Iran does not currently have any nuclear weapons, it has a long history of engaging in secret nuclear weapons research in violation of international commitments.
Western analysts suggest that if Iranian leaders decide to pursue it, the country has the knowledge and infrastructure to develop nuclear weapons in a relatively short period.
Iran’s claim on nuclear weapons
Iran has always maintained its non-military objectives when it comes to nuclear energy program. The country has a civilian nuclear energy program that is more than fifty years old. In April 2024, a government spokesperson stated, “Iran has repeatedly said that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes. Nuclear weapons have no place in our nuclear doctrine.”
However, revelations in the early 2000s about the country’s secret nuclear sites and research raised concerns in capitals worldwide about its covert attempts to develop nuclear weapons.
Who Gave Nuclear Technology to Iran?
It was the United States who provided nuclear technology to Iran. Iran’s nuclear program began in the 1950s as part of the Cold War alliance between the US and the Shah of Iran. The program was halted after the Iranian Revolution in 1979.
Through its “Atoms for Peace” program, the US helped Iran with nuclear technology, fuel, equipment, and training. In 1967, the U.S. supplied Iran with a 5-megawatt research reactor fueled by highly enriched uranium.
France
In 1974, Iran invested USD 1 billion in a French uranium enrichment plant. In return, Iran gained the right to 10% of the enriched uranium output.
Germany
The German company Kraftwerk assisted in the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant on the coast of the Persian Gulf.
