Simon Lewis, Reuters – The Biden administration is expressing concern over the potential for Iran to develop a nuclear weapon, according to White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. Sullivan stated on Sunday that he is briefing President-elect Donald Trump’s team on this risk. Iran has faced setbacks to its regional influence following Israeli attacks on its allies, Palestinian Hamas and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, as well as the downfall of Iran-aligned Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Sullivan informed CNN that Israeli strikes on Iranian facilities, such as missile factories and air defenses, have diminished Tehran’s conventional military capabilities.
Sullivan highlighted the escalating pressure on Iran, stating, “It’s no surprise that there are voices within Iran considering the urgency of pursuing a nuclear weapon. This has led to discussions about potentially reevaluating their nuclear doctrine.” Despite Iran’s claims that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, the country has escalated uranium enrichment efforts since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers. This agreement imposed restrictions on Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.
Emphasizing the current risks, Sullivan acknowledged the possibility of Iran reneging on its commitment not to pursue nuclear weapons. “We are actively monitoring this risk and providing thorough briefings to the incoming team,” Sullivan stated, noting consultations with U.S. ally Israel. With Trump set to assume office on January 20, there is speculation that he may revert to a hardline stance on Iran by intensifying sanctions on the country’s oil industry.
Sullivan suggested that Trump could potentially engage in diplomatic efforts with Iran, given its weakened position. “Perhaps, considering the circumstances in which Iran now finds itself, Trump may seize the opportunity to negotiate a nuclear agreement that effectively curbs Iran’s nuclear aspirations in the long run,” Sullivan remarked.
As the transition of power approaches, Sullivan underscored the importance of addressing the evolving situation with Iran and the potential ramifications of its nuclear ambitions. The delicate geopolitical landscape surrounding Iran’s nuclear program necessitates a nuanced and proactive approach to prevent further escalation and promote stability in the region.
Simon Lewis reporting for Reuters. Edited by Mark Porter and Lisa Shumaker.
