A recent article published by The National Interest has raised alarm over Iran’s apparent acceleration toward nuclear weaponization, citing stalled negotiations with Washington and growing regional tensions as key drivers behind Tehran’s shift in nuclear doctrine.

According to the report, Iranian officials have increasingly signaled a departure from their long-standing claim of pursuing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. Senior figures, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and IRGC commanders, have hinted that Iran may reconsider its nuclear stance if its national security continues to be threatened—particularly by Israel and the United States.

The article highlights Iran’s rapid uranium enrichment capabilities, noting that the country now possesses enough 60% enriched uranium to potentially produce multiple nuclear warheads within weeks if further refined to weapons-grade levels. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed concern over Iran’s refusal to allow inspections following recent military strikes on its nuclear facilities.

Iranian media and parliamentary voices have also echoed calls for a strategic shift, framing nuclear deterrence as a necessary response to what they describe as “Western aggression” and “Israeli provocations.” The collapse of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and the absence of a viable diplomatic alternative have further fueled speculation that Iran may be preparing to cross the nuclear threshold.

The National Interest article warns that such a move could trigger a regional arms race and undermine global nonproliferation efforts. It calls on U.S. policymakers to reassess their approach, suggesting that a renewed diplomatic framework—possibly with stronger security guarantees—may be the only way to prevent Iran from pursuing weaponization.