The U.S. National Intelligence Council's December 2007 unclassified summary stated that Iran's nuclear weapons program was halted in 2003, but other activities suggest continuance towards potential nuclear weapon production. Iran claims its nuclear program is peaceful, aimed at generating electricity and medical reactor fuel, while simultaneously developing missiles with long-range capabilities. This development has heightened international concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions and regional dominance.

1. THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE
OF IRANIAN NUCLEAR
PROGRAM

2. ON DECEMBER 3, 2007, THE U.S NIC RELEASED AN UNCLASSIFIED SUMMARY OF
THE
NIE ENTITLED "IRAN: NUCLEAR INTENTIONS AND CAPABILITIES." ALTHOUGH
THE
ASSESSMENT STATES THAT IRAN'S "NUCLEAR WEAPONS PROGRAM" WAS
HALTED IN
2003,“ MOREOVER, OTHER STATEMENTS IN THE DOCUMENT, ALONG WITH
EXTENSIVE
EVIDENCE IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN, SUGGEST THAT OTHER ACTIVITIES
RELEVANT TO THE
POSSIBLE PRODUCTION OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS CONTINUE

3. IRAN NUCLEAR PROGRAM
Nuclear program is to generate electricity
To provide fuel for medical reactors
The revival of the program in 2006
Iran's nuclear work is meant simply to enhance its
negotiating position
Enhance negotiating position

4. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
Iran continues to insist on the peaceful character of its nuclear
program. However, along with achieving progress in enriching
uranium, Tehran has developed missiles capable of reaching
Israel
As well as parts of eastern and southeastern Europe. These
developments have increased the international concern over its
nuclear program

5. REALISTIC APPROACHE
Regional Power
Political Dominancy
Hegemonic Behavior
Socio-Politico Challenges