Iran to Build More Enrichment Plants

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/23/world/middleeast/23iran.html?ref=world

This article discusses Iran's plans for the development of ten additional enrichment plants (two that will be started within the next year). In addition to this the head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization stated that these would use a new kind of centrifuge. According to ISNA News Agency in Iran the decision was made in December, and has been motivated by an attempt to increase the "supply fuel for planned electricity generation" which is legal under international law. Furthermore the facilities will be constructed in a way which protects them against any attack.

One could apply realist theory to this article as Iraq has maintained a strong posture in their uranium enrichment program despite the U.N and United Nations firmly condemning their actions thereby exemplifying offensive realism. This displays how Iran may be attempting to shift the balance of power between the United States and themselves. The United States in this scenario has reacted to the Iran's military potential despite their [Iran's] assurance that they are utilizing this in order to build up their fuel levels. What is interesting in that Iran has threatened with the development of more nuclear sites in the past but has never finally developed them. This scenario may be thought of as a the 'chicken' scenario as it is unclear whether Iran will be willing to risk further deterioration of their relations with the United States in order to develop these sites. In addition there is uncertainty surrounding the course of action that the United States will take in this situation as China has already proven reluctant to increase sanctions against Iran. What I believe to be of huge importance is the fact that Iran is planning on building these sites in a way which they would be protected against military action. Thus while they may intend to utilize these simply to increase their energy in the present, it gives them the possibility to have offensive power in the future. As a result it is not in the United States' interest to allow the development as they may be used against them in the future. What should be noted however is that the United States is unlikely to lose its retaliatory ability, which is more than likely to deter any military intention Iran has.