Possible Future Policy before Nuclearization of Iran

The aim of future U.S. political engagement should be to achieve realignment or integration of Iran into the international community. In engaging Iran, the United States should use "carrot-and-stick" approaches to support both sensible and realistic demands for change. Unlike current policy, which only looks to punish Iran, American foreign policymakers will need to formulate a different approach that relies on positive inducements for change as well as sanctions for non-compliance.

Nuclearization of Iran

Iran is currently the strongest Middle Eastern military power other than Israel, and Tehran has a great desire to lessen Western influence in this region. It has been assessed, as well, that Iran may be the first Islamic country in the Middle East to acquire a nuclear weapons capability. Proliferation of nuclear weapons to the Middle East, could pose a great threat to U.S. national security and international stability. A nuclearized Iran, in particular, would likely instigate competitive nuclear programs in several neighboring states, doing much to destabilize the already fragile security balance of the Middle East.

Islamic Revivalism the Issue of Iran

Iranian revolution to emerge as an Islamic republic under Ayatullah Ruhullah Khomini is another dimension of Islamic revivalism. The change in the ruling system, Iranian hostage crisis, Iraq-Iran war and ultimately the nuclearization programme make Iran an important concern for the prevailing power players. In earlier cold war period Shah’s Iran was a trusted ally and larger recipient of US provided aid. Scenario has changed with the change of regime in Iran.