Attaining Stability

<p>Iran is currently viewed by the US as a source of instability within the Persian Gulf region. The recent emergence of a more strident Iranian government apparently pursuing the acquisition of nuclear weapons has further destabilized the fragile regional environment. The prospect of a nuclear-capable Iran poses a profound threat for both the balance of power in the region and the security of Israel. This paper written by a USAWC AY2009 International student examines the social-economic-political context driving Iran towards nuclear armament and objectively examines corresponding policy alternatives for the US Pakistan and other regional actors. It specifically assesses the regional implications of aggressive counter-proliferation actions by the US or Israel and contrasts those with the near-and long-term consequences of accepting a nuclear capable Iran. The author concludes by recommending that the US focus its efforts on regional development and deterrence vice military counter-proliferation measures thereby influencing Iran toward moderation by establishing democratic and liberalized governments in the region.</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p>