Fallout from Iran’s recent missile test has resulted in new US sanctions and warnings from the Trump Administration that the country is “playing with fire” and is now “on notice.” Is the test a violation of the Iran Nuclear Deal? What can we expect moving forward? We asked nonproliferation and national security expert, Robert Litwak to provide analysis. That’s the focus of this edition of Wilson Center NOW.

Guest

The IAEA Statute at Sixty

Key Takeaways:

• The risk of a single nuclear weapon being detonated by a determined terrorist group has markedly increased.
• The Nuclear Security Summits have made a significant contribution to nuclear security and should be continued.
• The greatest, most urgent nuclear threat to the U.S. is from North Korea which is on the verge of a strategic breakout.
   

Q: What is the greatest challenge facing the United States in the area of nuclear proliferation?

One of the worst fears in the post 9-11 world is that the threat of nuclear terrorism will become reality. Nonproliferation expert, Robert Litwak has for decades been immersed in the work of securing nuclear weapons and materials from spreading and falling into the hands of actors that would not hesitate to put them to destructive use. His books on “Rogue” and “Outlier” states have provided valuable ways to think about and address the threats posed by potential abuses of nuclear technologies.

The Iran nuclear deal continues to be a focus of partisan disagreement during election 2016. We asked nonproliferation expert, Robert Litwak to provide an update on the deal in the shadow of the race for the White House. That’s the focus of this edition of  Wilson Center NOW.

Guest

Summary 

While denuclearization should remain the goal of U.S. policy, freezing North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs should be a priority. However, sanctions alone will not be enough to get North Korea to freeze these activities.

Policy Recommendations:

Recognizing the limits of sanctions on North Korea: