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Iran's nuclear site at Fordo is attacked again, Iranian media say. Tehran launches strikes on Israel

The article from WMUR, titled "Iran says it could review 'nuclear doctrine' amid Israeli threats," discusses the escalating tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel, particularly in the context of Iran's nuclear program and recent military actions. The article, published on April 18, 2024, provides a comprehensive overview of the current situation, the historical context, and the potential implications of these developments.

The article begins by highlighting a statement from Iran's nuclear chief, Mohammad Eslami, who suggested that Iran might need to reconsider its nuclear doctrine in response to threats from Israel. This statement comes in the wake of a series of missile and drone attacks between Iran and Israel, which have heightened fears of a broader conflict in the region. Eslami's comments indicate a potential shift in Iran's approach to its nuclear program, which has been a contentious issue for decades.

The article then delves into the recent military actions that have escalated tensions. On April 13, Iran launched a barrage of drones and missiles targeting Israel, in retaliation for an alleged Israeli strike on an Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, on April 1. Israel, with assistance from the United States and other allies, successfully intercepted most of the incoming projectiles. However, the attack marked a significant escalation, as it was the first time Iran had directly targeted Israel from its own territory.

In response to Iran's attack, Israel conducted a retaliatory strike on April 19, targeting an Iranian military base near the city of Isfahan. The strike was reportedly limited in scope, aimed at sending a message rather than causing significant damage. However, the incident further raised concerns about the potential for a wider conflict.

The article provides historical context for the current tensions, tracing the origins of the Iran-Israel rivalry back to the 1979 Iranian Revolution. Since then, the two countries have been engaged in a shadow war, with Israel viewing Iran's nuclear program as an existential threat. The United States has also been a key player in this dynamic, imposing sanctions on Iran and supporting Israel's security.

The article discusses the current state of Iran's nuclear program, which has been the subject of international negotiations and sanctions for years. In 2015, Iran reached a landmark agreement with world powers, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which placed strict limits on its nuclear activities in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. However, in 2018, the United States unilaterally withdrew from the deal under President Donald Trump, reimposing sanctions and prompting Iran to gradually reduce its compliance with the agreement.

Since then, efforts to revive the JCPOA have stalled, and Iran has continued to expand its nuclear capabilities. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that Iran has amassed a stockpile of enriched uranium far beyond the limits set by the JCPOA, and has also begun enriching uranium to higher levels, bringing it closer to weapons-grade material.

The article explores the potential implications of Iran's nuclear chief's statement about reviewing its nuclear doctrine. While Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, the statement raises concerns that Iran may be considering a more aggressive stance, potentially including the development of nuclear weapons. Such a move would likely provoke a strong response from Israel and the United States, further escalating tensions in the region.

The article also discusses the role of the United States in the current crisis. President Joe Biden has reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Israel's security, and has warned Iran against further attacks. However, the U.S. has also sought to avoid being drawn into a direct conflict with Iran, and has urged restraint on all sides.

The article examines the potential consequences of a wider conflict between Iran and Israel. A full-scale war could have devastating effects on the region, potentially drawing in other countries and disrupting global oil supplies. It could also lead to a humanitarian crisis, as both countries have the capability to inflict significant damage on civilian populations.

The article also considers the impact of the current crisis on the broader Middle East. The tensions between Iran and Israel have already affected other countries in the region, such as Syria and Lebanon, where Iran has supported proxy forces. A wider conflict could further destabilize these countries and potentially lead to a regional conflagration.

The article concludes by discussing the prospects for de-escalation and diplomacy. While the current situation appears dire, there have been calls from some quarters for a renewed effort to revive the JCPOA and address Iran's nuclear program through negotiations. However, the article notes that the path to a diplomatic solution remains uncertain, given the deep mistrust between the parties and the ongoing military actions.

Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the complex and dangerous situation unfolding between Iran, Israel, and the United States. It highlights the historical context, the recent military actions, and the potential implications of Iran's nuclear chief's statement about reviewing its nuclear doctrine. The article underscores the urgent need for de-escalation and diplomacy to prevent a wider conflict that could have devastating consequences for the region and the world.

Read the Full WMUR Article at:
[ https://www.wmur.com/article/iran-us-israel-missile-strikes-nuclear-sites/65152341 ]