Iran is developing nuclear-capable warheads, opposition group says
Summary
An exiled Iranian opposition group, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), has revealed evidence that Iran is secretly developing nuclear-capable warheads for missiles that could reach Europe. At a Washington press conference, the group stated that Iran's Organization for Advanced Defense Research (SPND) is overseeing efforts to produce solid-fuel Ghaem-100 missiles at the Shahroud site and liquid-fuel Simorgh missiles at Semnan, both reportedly designed to carry nuclear warheads. The initiative is allegedly camouflaged as a satellite launch program.
Tehran denies pursuing nuclear weapons, asserting it conducts peaceful scientific research. However, reports suggest renewed activity at secret nuclear sites, including Sanjarian and Golab Dareh, linked to Iran's early nuclear weapons program. Satellite imagery and intelligence indicate Iranian experts have resumed work on weapons-related projects over the past 18 months.
Israel has expressed serious concerns, citing Tehran’s alleged nuclear ambitions. In October 2022, Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple Iranian sites, including Shahroud’s Space Center. Despite the strikes, Iran’s defense minister denied any damage to missile facilities. Israel continues to warn that military action may become necessary, as it doubts Iran will comply with diplomatic measures.
Israeli officials, including Omer Dostri, a spokesman for Prime Minister Netanyahu, have emphasized that while they prefer diplomacy, they are prepared to act alone if needed. With mounting international concern and ongoing Iranian military drills at key nuclear sites, the potential for escalation remains high. Time-sensitive action is seen as crucial to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities.
