Problems With Obama's Missile Defense - Bulletin of Atomic Scientists
http://www.thebulletin.org/web-edition/op-eds/technical-flaws-the-obama-missile-defense-plan
Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire - Major Energy and Environmental News and Commentary affecting the Nuclear Industry. Nuclear Activities
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Juan Cole - The Most Dangerous Nuclear Facility
Juan Cole - The Most Dangerous Nuclear Facility
It is Israel's ongoing nuclear weapon production that drives the nuclear arms race in the Middle East. Saddam wanted a bomb because Israel had one. The Iranians were then worried both about an Iraqi and an Israeli bomb. Egypt, Saudi Arabia and others are annoyed at their geostrategic helplessness in the face of Israeli nukes.
http://www.opednews.com/populum/linkframe.php?linkid=98267
It is Israel's ongoing nuclear weapon production that drives the nuclear arms race in the Middle East. Saddam wanted a bomb because Israel had one. The Iranians were then worried both about an Iraqi and an Israeli bomb. Egypt, Saudi Arabia and others are annoyed at their geostrategic helplessness in the face of Israeli nukes.
http://www.opednews.com/populum/linkframe.php?linkid=98267
A Nuclear Debate: Is Iran Designing Warheads?
A Nuclear Debate: Is Iran Designing Warheads?
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/29/world/middleeast/29nuke.html?_r=1&ref=global-home
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/29/world/middleeast/29nuke.html?_r=1&ref=global-home
Monday, September 28, 2009
Don't Israel's Nuclear Weapons Count? by Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, 9/28/2009
Don't Israel's Nuclear Weapons Count? by Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, 9/28/2009
http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/commentators/yasmin-alibhai-brown/yasmin-alibhaibrown-dont-israels-nuclear-weapons-count-1794275.html
http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/commentators/yasmin-alibhai-brown/yasmin-alibhaibrown-dont-israels-nuclear-weapons-count-1794275.html
Iran test-fires two long-range missiles
Iran test-fires two long-range missiles
Tehran (AFP) Sept 28, 2009 - Iran on Monday test-fired its two long-range missiles which it says could hit targets in arch-foe Israel, as the Revolutionary Guards staged war games for the second straight day. The exercises coincide with heightened tension with the West after the UN nuclear watchdog revealed on Friday that Tehran was building a second uranium enrichment plant. Western countries suspect Iran of seeking ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_test-fires_two_long-range_missiles_999.html
Tehran (AFP) Sept 28, 2009 - Iran on Monday test-fired its two long-range missiles which it says could hit targets in arch-foe Israel, as the Revolutionary Guards staged war games for the second straight day. The exercises coincide with heightened tension with the West after the UN nuclear watchdog revealed on Friday that Tehran was building a second uranium enrichment plant. Western countries suspect Iran of seeking ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_test-fires_two_long-range_missiles_999.html
Keeping Iran honest
Keeping Iran honest: Iran's secret nuclear plant will spark a new round of IAEA inspections and lead to a period of even greater transparency - Scott Ritter, guardian.co.uk: When Obama announced that 'Iran is breaking rules that all nations must follow', he is technically and legally wrong.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2009/sep/25/iran-secret-nuclear-plant-inspections
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2009/sep/25/iran-secret-nuclear-plant-inspections
September 'Surprise' The countdown to war begins, says Justin Raimondo
September 'Surprise'
The countdown to war begins, says Justin Raimondo
http://original.antiwar.com/justin/2009/09/27/september-surprise-2/
The countdown to war begins, says Justin Raimondo
http://original.antiwar.com/justin/2009/09/27/september-surprise-2/
MI6: Saudis Will Let Israel Bomb Iran Nuclear Site
MI6: Saudis Will Let Israel Bomb Iran Nuclear Site
http://news.antiwar.com/2009/09/27/mi6-saudis-will-let-israel-bomb-iran-nuclear-site/
Clinton: Iran Can't Claim Nuclear Site Is Peaceful
http://news.antiwar.com/2009/09/27/clinton-nothing-iran-can-do-to-convince-us-nuclear-program-is-peaceful/
Iran Vows to Stick With Low-Level Nuclear Enrichment
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090927/wl_afp/irannuclearpolitics
Iran Test-Fires Short-Range Missiles
http://wire.antiwar.com/2009/09/27/iran-test-fires-short-range-missiles-9/
http://news.antiwar.com/2009/09/27/mi6-saudis-will-let-israel-bomb-iran-nuclear-site/
Clinton: Iran Can't Claim Nuclear Site Is Peaceful
http://news.antiwar.com/2009/09/27/clinton-nothing-iran-can-do-to-convince-us-nuclear-program-is-peaceful/
Iran Vows to Stick With Low-Level Nuclear Enrichment
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090927/wl_afp/irannuclearpolitics
Iran Test-Fires Short-Range Missiles
http://wire.antiwar.com/2009/09/27/iran-test-fires-short-range-missiles-9/
Time For Iran To 'Come Clean'
Time For Iran To 'Come Clean'
Last Friday at the start of the G20 summit in Pittsburgh, President Obama -- flanked by French President Nicolas Sarkozy and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and with the support of German Chancellor Angela Merkel -- revealed the existence of a secret Iranian uranium enrichment facility near the seminary city of Qom, 60 miles south of Tehran. Obama reportedly decided to disclose the undeclared enrichment plant after Iran discovered that Western intelligence agencies had breached the secrecy surrounding the project. Last Monday, soon after Iran learned of the Western espionage, the regime delivered a "vague, terse" letter to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). It informed the U.N. nuclear watchdog that a facility is under construction -- "one that had never been mentioned during years" of IAEA inspections at another nuclear facility in Natanz. While the Iranians argued that construction of the site is "completely legal," Obama offered harsh criticism of Iran's covert operation. "Iran's decision to build yet another nuclear facility without notifying the IAEA represents a direct challenge to the basic compact at the center of the non-proliferation regime," he said, adding, "It is time for Iran to act immediately to restore the confidence of the international community by fulfilling its international obligations."
IRAN 'IN A VERY BAD SPOT': While Iran's nuclear chief said the IAEA would be invited to visit the newly disclosed site, he did not specify a timeframe. Indeed, the Obama administration's first diplomatic encounter with Iran will take place this Thursday in Geneva, along with representatives from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, and China. Yesterday, Iran test-fired three short range missiles that "appeared to be a show of military power." Nonetheless, President Obama offered tough rhetoric ahead of the talks. "Iran is on notice that when we meet with them on Oct. 1 they are going to have to come clean and they are going to have to make a choice" between giving up nuclear aspirations or increased isolation, the President said. Refusal to give ground will lead to "a path that is going to lead to confrontation," Obama said, adding, "When we find that diplomacy does not work, we will be in a much stronger position to, for example, apply sanctions that have bite." European diplomats sounded the alarm as well. Defense Secretary Robert Gates echoed Obama's stern warnings yesterday, saying that the secret facility puts the Iranian government "in a very bad spot," raising the prospect of "severe additional sanctions." While Gates said any military option would only "buy time," other senior officials said the Obama administration plans to te ll the Iranian delegation in Geneva that it must open the new site to international inspectors "within weeks." "If Iran repeats its line on Thursday that the nuclear file is closed and that there is nothing to discuss, then we will move straight to sanctions" an unnamed senior European diplomat on Sunday. "But I don't think the Iranians will be that stupid."
WILL MOSCOW GET TOUGH?: Another unnamed European diplomat noted that "the Russians feel Iran isn't taking their expressions of concern seriously and that is clearly irritating Moscow a lot." The diplomat cautioned that "it is still unclear how far Russia, or indeed China would go down the sanctions road." But Russian President Dmitry Medvedev "hardened Russia's stance on Iran's nuclear program on Friday after the US, Britain and France revealed that Tehran" has been constructing the secret facility. Medvedev -- who Obama briefed on Thursday about the uranium enrichment site -- said, "I don't consider sanctions the best way to achieve results on Iran...but all the same, if all possibilities to influence the situation are exhausted, then we can use international sanctions." "President Obama is slowly putting Iran in a box," said Juan Cole, Professor of History at the University of Michigan. Despite denials of any quid pro quo, a more cooperative Russian tone has followed Obama's cancellation of "the useless and expensive so-called missile shield program." While China responded to the revelations of Iran's second enrichment facility "more neutrally," many Western diplomats "have long believed that if Ru ssia throws its weight behind sanctions China will follow, wishing to avoid isolation in the UN Security Council."
THE RIGHT WING'S PREDICTABLE REACTION: Conservative senators reacted to the news of Iran's secret facility in predictable fashion, echoing much of the rhetoric coming out the the Bush administration over the last eight years: "regime change." "What we're trying to do here eventually is to get a regime change with a group of people in there that are more representative of the Iranian people," Sen. John Kyl (R-AZ) said yesterday. "At a certain point, talking is counterproductive rather than productive because time is not on our side," he said, adding later that "the carrot approach does not work with these people." Sen. Kit Bond (R-MO) pushed regime change yesterday too. "We have to have strong sanctions, economic sanctions that can force either a regime change or the Ayatollahs to change their policy," he said. But it's clear now that the Bush administration's refusal to engage Iran (at least only until the waning days of Bush's tenure) and its "regime change" rhetoric served only to embolden Iran's hardliners within the country. And instead of accepting -- or even responding to -- Iran's offer of engagement in 2003, President Bush lumped the Islamic Republic into the now infamous "axis of evil." Eight years of the Bush administration's disengagement with Iran has only led to its nuclear program growing in size and scope. "The U.S. right wing accused Obama of a failure of nerve," Cole noted, "But in fact his move was shrewd and gutsy, since he predisposed Russia to increased cooperation." Jon Ward of The Washington Times writes, "Not only did the president look strong, he looked cunning."
Last Friday at the start of the G20 summit in Pittsburgh, President Obama -- flanked by French President Nicolas Sarkozy and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and with the support of German Chancellor Angela Merkel -- revealed the existence of a secret Iranian uranium enrichment facility near the seminary city of Qom, 60 miles south of Tehran. Obama reportedly decided to disclose the undeclared enrichment plant after Iran discovered that Western intelligence agencies had breached the secrecy surrounding the project. Last Monday, soon after Iran learned of the Western espionage, the regime delivered a "vague, terse" letter to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). It informed the U.N. nuclear watchdog that a facility is under construction -- "one that had never been mentioned during years" of IAEA inspections at another nuclear facility in Natanz. While the Iranians argued that construction of the site is "completely legal," Obama offered harsh criticism of Iran's covert operation. "Iran's decision to build yet another nuclear facility without notifying the IAEA represents a direct challenge to the basic compact at the center of the non-proliferation regime," he said, adding, "It is time for Iran to act immediately to restore the confidence of the international community by fulfilling its international obligations."
IRAN 'IN A VERY BAD SPOT': While Iran's nuclear chief said the IAEA would be invited to visit the newly disclosed site, he did not specify a timeframe. Indeed, the Obama administration's first diplomatic encounter with Iran will take place this Thursday in Geneva, along with representatives from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, and China. Yesterday, Iran test-fired three short range missiles that "appeared to be a show of military power." Nonetheless, President Obama offered tough rhetoric ahead of the talks. "Iran is on notice that when we meet with them on Oct. 1 they are going to have to come clean and they are going to have to make a choice" between giving up nuclear aspirations or increased isolation, the President said. Refusal to give ground will lead to "a path that is going to lead to confrontation," Obama said, adding, "When we find that diplomacy does not work, we will be in a much stronger position to, for example, apply sanctions that have bite." European diplomats sounded the alarm as well. Defense Secretary Robert Gates echoed Obama's stern warnings yesterday, saying that the secret facility puts the Iranian government "in a very bad spot," raising the prospect of "severe additional sanctions." While Gates said any military option would only "buy time," other senior officials said the Obama administration plans to te ll the Iranian delegation in Geneva that it must open the new site to international inspectors "within weeks." "If Iran repeats its line on Thursday that the nuclear file is closed and that there is nothing to discuss, then we will move straight to sanctions" an unnamed senior European diplomat on Sunday. "But I don't think the Iranians will be that stupid."
WILL MOSCOW GET TOUGH?: Another unnamed European diplomat noted that "the Russians feel Iran isn't taking their expressions of concern seriously and that is clearly irritating Moscow a lot." The diplomat cautioned that "it is still unclear how far Russia, or indeed China would go down the sanctions road." But Russian President Dmitry Medvedev "hardened Russia's stance on Iran's nuclear program on Friday after the US, Britain and France revealed that Tehran" has been constructing the secret facility. Medvedev -- who Obama briefed on Thursday about the uranium enrichment site -- said, "I don't consider sanctions the best way to achieve results on Iran...but all the same, if all possibilities to influence the situation are exhausted, then we can use international sanctions." "President Obama is slowly putting Iran in a box," said Juan Cole, Professor of History at the University of Michigan. Despite denials of any quid pro quo, a more cooperative Russian tone has followed Obama's cancellation of "the useless and expensive so-called missile shield program." While China responded to the revelations of Iran's second enrichment facility "more neutrally," many Western diplomats "have long believed that if Ru ssia throws its weight behind sanctions China will follow, wishing to avoid isolation in the UN Security Council."
THE RIGHT WING'S PREDICTABLE REACTION: Conservative senators reacted to the news of Iran's secret facility in predictable fashion, echoing much of the rhetoric coming out the the Bush administration over the last eight years: "regime change." "What we're trying to do here eventually is to get a regime change with a group of people in there that are more representative of the Iranian people," Sen. John Kyl (R-AZ) said yesterday. "At a certain point, talking is counterproductive rather than productive because time is not on our side," he said, adding later that "the carrot approach does not work with these people." Sen. Kit Bond (R-MO) pushed regime change yesterday too. "We have to have strong sanctions, economic sanctions that can force either a regime change or the Ayatollahs to change their policy," he said. But it's clear now that the Bush administration's refusal to engage Iran (at least only until the waning days of Bush's tenure) and its "regime change" rhetoric served only to embolden Iran's hardliners within the country. And instead of accepting -- or even responding to -- Iran's offer of engagement in 2003, President Bush lumped the Islamic Republic into the now infamous "axis of evil." Eight years of the Bush administration's disengagement with Iran has only led to its nuclear program growing in size and scope. "The U.S. right wing accused Obama of a failure of nerve," Cole noted, "But in fact his move was shrewd and gutsy, since he predisposed Russia to increased cooperation." Jon Ward of The Washington Times writes, "Not only did the president look strong, he looked cunning."
Safety issues may prompt China to slow pace of nuclear expansion
Safety issues may prompt China to slow pace of nuclear expansion
China may delay its construction of nuclear power facilities to focus on safety measures at the plants, said Zhang Guobao, chief of the National Energy Administration. The country originally wanted to reach 40 gigawatts of nuclear power capacity by 2020, which would require building about two reactors annually. "We'd rather move slower and achieve less than incur potential safety concerns in terms of nuclear energy," Zhang said during an energy conference. Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssEnergyNews/idUSPEK22780320090927
China may delay its construction of nuclear power facilities to focus on safety measures at the plants, said Zhang Guobao, chief of the National Energy Administration. The country originally wanted to reach 40 gigawatts of nuclear power capacity by 2020, which would require building about two reactors annually. "We'd rather move slower and achieve less than incur potential safety concerns in terms of nuclear energy," Zhang said during an energy conference. Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssEnergyNews/idUSPEK22780320090927
Nuclear Weapons Science: How to Build a Bomb Fox News - September 23, 2009
Nuclear Weapons Science: How to Build a Bomb
Fox News - September 23, 2009
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,554281,00.html
Fox News - September 23, 2009
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,554281,00.html
India, Mongolia sign uranium agreement
India, Mongolia sign uranium agreement
New Delhi (UPI) Sep 15, 2009 - India signed a civil nuclear energy agreement with uranium-rich Mongolia on Monday. The memorandum of understanding for "peaceful use of radioactive minerals and nuclear energy" was signed during Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia's state visit to India. According to a statement issued by the Mongolian presidency, Indian officials expressed a "willingness to cooperate in ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/India_Mongolia_sign_uranium_agreement_999.html
New Delhi (UPI) Sep 15, 2009 - India signed a civil nuclear energy agreement with uranium-rich Mongolia on Monday. The memorandum of understanding for "peaceful use of radioactive minerals and nuclear energy" was signed during Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia's state visit to India. According to a statement issued by the Mongolian presidency, Indian officials expressed a "willingness to cooperate in ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/India_Mongolia_sign_uranium_agreement_999.html
Algeria claims 29,000 tonnes in uranium reserves
Algeria claims 29,000 tonnes in uranium reserves
Algiers (AFP) Sept 24, 2009 - Nearly 29,000 tonnes of proven and exploitable uranium reserves lie beneath the ground in Algeria, its energy and mines minister Chakib Khelil said Thursday. "Such quantities would enable the operation of just two nuclear power plants, each with a capacity of 1,000 megawatts, for a period of 60 years," said Khelil at a domestic energy conference, the APS news agency reported. ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Algeria_claims_29000_tonnes_in_uranium_reserves_999.html
Algiers (AFP) Sept 24, 2009 - Nearly 29,000 tonnes of proven and exploitable uranium reserves lie beneath the ground in Algeria, its energy and mines minister Chakib Khelil said Thursday. "Such quantities would enable the operation of just two nuclear power plants, each with a capacity of 1,000 megawatts, for a period of 60 years," said Khelil at a domestic energy conference, the APS news agency reported. ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Algeria_claims_29000_tonnes_in_uranium_reserves_999.html
Canada, Kazakhstan to cooperate on nuclear energy
Canada, Kazakhstan to cooperate on nuclear energy
Ottawa (AFP) Sept 24, 2009 - Canada's Trade Minister Stockwell Day and Kazakhstan's Energy Minister Sauat Mynbaev jointly announced Thursday the conclusion of negotiations for a bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement. Their respective governments, however, must still finalize the legal text prior to signing and implementing the pact. "This agreement will open up the civil nuclear market to Canadian companies, who ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Canada_Kazakhstan_to_cooperate_on_nuclear_energy_999.html
Ottawa (AFP) Sept 24, 2009 - Canada's Trade Minister Stockwell Day and Kazakhstan's Energy Minister Sauat Mynbaev jointly announced Thursday the conclusion of negotiations for a bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement. Their respective governments, however, must still finalize the legal text prior to signing and implementing the pact. "This agreement will open up the civil nuclear market to Canadian companies, who ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Canada_Kazakhstan_to_cooperate_on_nuclear_energy_999.html
+ Ux Consulting Issues Global Nuclear Power Forecasts
+ Ux Consulting Issues Global Nuclear Power Forecasts
Roswell GA (SPX) Sep 25, 2009 - The Ux Consulting Company has announced the release of its latest Nuclear Power Outlook (NPO), which forecasts worldwide nuclear reactor growth through 2030. In addition, UxC is pleased to introduce its latest nuclear fuel requirements forecasts through 2030 created with its new, proprietary UxC Requirements Model (URM). Since 2007, UxC has presented its unique nuclear power forecasts in ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Ux_Consulting_Issues_Global_Nuclear_Power_Forecasts_999.html
Roswell GA (SPX) Sep 25, 2009 - The Ux Consulting Company has announced the release of its latest Nuclear Power Outlook (NPO), which forecasts worldwide nuclear reactor growth through 2030. In addition, UxC is pleased to introduce its latest nuclear fuel requirements forecasts through 2030 created with its new, proprietary UxC Requirements Model (URM). Since 2007, UxC has presented its unique nuclear power forecasts in ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Ux_Consulting_Issues_Global_Nuclear_Power_Forecasts_999.html
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy Leads With World's Most Advanced Nuclear Reactor
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy Leads With World's Most Advanced Nuclear Reactor
Wilmington NC (SPX) Sep 28, 2009 - GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) has announced it has achieved a key milestone in deploying the world's most advanced nuclear reactor design. GEH has completed its submittal of the design certification document for the Economic Simplified Boiling Water Reactor (ESBWR) to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). With the submittal, GEH has provided detailed information for the NRC to ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/GE_Hitachi_Nuclear_Energy_Leads_With_World_Most_Advanced_Nuclear_Reactor_999.html
Wilmington NC (SPX) Sep 28, 2009 - GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) has announced it has achieved a key milestone in deploying the world's most advanced nuclear reactor design. GEH has completed its submittal of the design certification document for the Economic Simplified Boiling Water Reactor (ESBWR) to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). With the submittal, GEH has provided detailed information for the NRC to ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/GE_Hitachi_Nuclear_Energy_Leads_With_World_Most_Advanced_Nuclear_Reactor_999.html
US seeks 'unified' call on NKorea nuclear talks: envoy
US seeks 'unified' call on NKorea nuclear talks: envoy
Hanoi (AFP) Sept 27, 2009 - The United States wants its partners in the six-nation forum on North Korea's nuclear disarmament to send Pyongyang a "unified" message to return to the talks, a senior US envoy said Sunday. US Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg, who is visiting Hanoi as part of a five-nation Asian tour, said he hoped Washington's allies would continue working together on getting North Korea back to ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_seeks_unified_call_on_NKorea_nuclear_talks_envoy_999.html
Hanoi (AFP) Sept 27, 2009 - The United States wants its partners in the six-nation forum on North Korea's nuclear disarmament to send Pyongyang a "unified" message to return to the talks, a senior US envoy said Sunday. US Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg, who is visiting Hanoi as part of a five-nation Asian tour, said he hoped Washington's allies would continue working together on getting North Korea back to ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_seeks_unified_call_on_NKorea_nuclear_talks_envoy_999.html
Leaders Take New Missile Defense Plan To US Congress
Leaders Take New Missile Defense Plan To US Congress
Washington DC (SPX) Sep 28, 2009 - President Barack Obama's decision to restructure a previous missile defense plan designed to protect Europe from a possible ballistic missile attack from Iran provides a more effective, flexible system that will take less time to implement, senior Pentagon officials said on Capitol Hill. "We are confident that our new approach represents a dramatic improvement over the program of old," ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Leaders_Take_New_Missile_Defense_Plan_To_US_Congress_999.html
Washington DC (SPX) Sep 28, 2009 - President Barack Obama's decision to restructure a previous missile defense plan designed to protect Europe from a possible ballistic missile attack from Iran provides a more effective, flexible system that will take less time to implement, senior Pentagon officials said on Capitol Hill. "We are confident that our new approach represents a dramatic improvement over the program of old," ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Leaders_Take_New_Missile_Defense_Plan_To_US_Congress_999.html
Russia: Iran's enigmatic ally and key crisis player
Russia: Iran's enigmatic ally and key crisis player
Moscow (AFP) Sept 27, 2009 - Russia, which has the deepest relations with Iran of any big power, is to play a critical role in the Iranian nuclear crisis in the next months as the clock ticks on efforts to find a diplomatic solution. Moscow is a key supplier of military hardware to Tehran, a reliable trade partner in difficult times and is building Iran's first nuclear power plant -- subtle levers to pressure Tehran ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Russia_Irans_enigmatic_ally_and_key_crisis_player_999.html
Moscow (AFP) Sept 27, 2009 - Russia, which has the deepest relations with Iran of any big power, is to play a critical role in the Iranian nuclear crisis in the next months as the clock ticks on efforts to find a diplomatic solution. Moscow is a key supplier of military hardware to Tehran, a reliable trade partner in difficult times and is building Iran's first nuclear power plant -- subtle levers to pressure Tehran ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Russia_Irans_enigmatic_ally_and_key_crisis_player_999.html
Iran vows to stick with low-level nuclear enrichment
Iran vows to stick with low-level nuclear enrichment
Tehran (AFP) Sept 27, 2009 - Iran will keep its uranium enrichment level at up to five percent -- much lower than bomb-grade -- its nuclear chief said on Sunday after news of Tehran's new atomic facility sparked a global outcry. "We don't want to change the arrangement of five-percent enrichment merely to produce 150 to 300 kilos of 20-percent (enriched) fuel," ILNA news agency quoted Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_vows_to_stick_with_low-level_nuclear_enrichment_999.html
Tehran (AFP) Sept 27, 2009 - Iran will keep its uranium enrichment level at up to five percent -- much lower than bomb-grade -- its nuclear chief said on Sunday after news of Tehran's new atomic facility sparked a global outcry. "We don't want to change the arrangement of five-percent enrichment merely to produce 150 to 300 kilos of 20-percent (enriched) fuel," ILNA news agency quoted Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_vows_to_stick_with_low-level_nuclear_enrichment_999.html
West demands access to Iran's secret nuclear plant
West demands access to Iran's secret nuclear plant
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (AFP) Sept 25, 2009 - World leaders on Friday demanded access for UN inspectors to a secret Iranian nuclear plant, threatening tough new sanctions should Tehran refuse to come clean. In a dramatic announcement, US President Barack Obama, French President Nicolas Sarkozy and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said Tehran admitted to the UN nuclear watchdog that it had built a second uranium enrichment facility. ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/West_demands_access_to_Irans_secret_nuclear_plant_999.html
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (AFP) Sept 25, 2009 - World leaders on Friday demanded access for UN inspectors to a secret Iranian nuclear plant, threatening tough new sanctions should Tehran refuse to come clean. In a dramatic announcement, US President Barack Obama, French President Nicolas Sarkozy and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said Tehran admitted to the UN nuclear watchdog that it had built a second uranium enrichment facility. ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/West_demands_access_to_Irans_secret_nuclear_plant_999.html
Another Nuclear Plant: The calculations of Iran's nearness to building a bomb
Another Nuclear Plant: The calculations of Iran's nearness to building a bomb -- and the urgency of stopping it -- just changed – Editorial, Washington Post: The United States must make clear to those governments that it will not settle for inaction against a regime that is brazenly defying international treaties and U.N. Security Council resolutions. At the same time, the administration should reassess the intelligence community's conclusion about whether and how quickly Iran is seeking a weapon.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/25/AR2009092503389_pf.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/09/25/AR2009092503389_pf.html
Analysis: Obama strikes a tough tone on Iran:
Analysis: Obama strikes a tough tone on Iran:
But the diplomacy needed to get Iran to halt its nuclear program will require more than tone - C.M. Sennott - GlobalPost: "At the Group of 20 summit in Pittsburgh, President Barack Obama locked arms with the leaders of France and the United Kingdom to warn Iran that it must immediately halt its nuclear program. … In the city of bridges, Obama essentially threatened Iran that it has just burned one too many with the international community. But in choosing to do so on the public stage of Pittsburgh’s G20 summit with all the world’s media watching and looking for any story more interesting than a long-winded communique on the economy, Obama was essentially doing what he does best. That is, public diplomacy. And, as always, his tone is pretty close to perfect. He sounded firm, convincing and respectfully multilateral, and that tone goes a long way to swooning the world. It gets people around the globe to believe that the real America is rational and a natural leader in a dangerous world. This is a decidedly different image from the unilateral and seemingly belligerent America put forward by President George W. Bush. But former diplomats and Middle East analysts believe Obama will need more than perfect pitch in the public diplomacy of Iran, which interlocks directly with the profound policy challenges on Afghanistan, Iraq and the wider goal of global nuclear proliferation. This is chess on many levels, not pop music."
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/worldview/090925/obama-strikes-tough-tone-iran
But the diplomacy needed to get Iran to halt its nuclear program will require more than tone - C.M. Sennott - GlobalPost: "At the Group of 20 summit in Pittsburgh, President Barack Obama locked arms with the leaders of France and the United Kingdom to warn Iran that it must immediately halt its nuclear program. … In the city of bridges, Obama essentially threatened Iran that it has just burned one too many with the international community. But in choosing to do so on the public stage of Pittsburgh’s G20 summit with all the world’s media watching and looking for any story more interesting than a long-winded communique on the economy, Obama was essentially doing what he does best. That is, public diplomacy. And, as always, his tone is pretty close to perfect. He sounded firm, convincing and respectfully multilateral, and that tone goes a long way to swooning the world. It gets people around the globe to believe that the real America is rational and a natural leader in a dangerous world. This is a decidedly different image from the unilateral and seemingly belligerent America put forward by President George W. Bush. But former diplomats and Middle East analysts believe Obama will need more than perfect pitch in the public diplomacy of Iran, which interlocks directly with the profound policy challenges on Afghanistan, Iraq and the wider goal of global nuclear proliferation. This is chess on many levels, not pop music."
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/worldview/090925/obama-strikes-tough-tone-iran
Obama's Announcement About Iran's Secret Enrichment Facility - Brookings Institution:
Obama's Announcement About Iran's Secret Enrichment Facility - Brookings Institution:
"The Obama Administration should gain some boost for its public diplomacy efforts to persuade skeptical governments and the international community more broadly of the dangerous nature of Iran’s nuclear program. But here too, there is probably less than meets the eye; at this late date in the debate, the Iranian regime has relatively few defenders, and anyone who still needing convincing that Iran’s massive, frantic nuclear investments involved something more worrisome than civilian power generation probably will find a way to disregard this latest evidence. … [T]he difficulty with assembling international support for robust economic measures against Iran has never involved doubt over Iran’s intentions or differences over the desirability of preventing Iran from crossing the nuclear threshold. Rather, the long track record of Russia and China on this issue has made it clear that neither capital will fully jettison its strategically and economically valuable relationship with Tehran in order to curtail Iran’s nuclear ambitions."
http://www.brookings.edu/opinions/2009/0925_iran_nuclear_maloney.aspx
"The Obama Administration should gain some boost for its public diplomacy efforts to persuade skeptical governments and the international community more broadly of the dangerous nature of Iran’s nuclear program. But here too, there is probably less than meets the eye; at this late date in the debate, the Iranian regime has relatively few defenders, and anyone who still needing convincing that Iran’s massive, frantic nuclear investments involved something more worrisome than civilian power generation probably will find a way to disregard this latest evidence. … [T]he difficulty with assembling international support for robust economic measures against Iran has never involved doubt over Iran’s intentions or differences over the desirability of preventing Iran from crossing the nuclear threshold. Rather, the long track record of Russia and China on this issue has made it clear that neither capital will fully jettison its strategically and economically valuable relationship with Tehran in order to curtail Iran’s nuclear ambitions."
http://www.brookings.edu/opinions/2009/0925_iran_nuclear_maloney.aspx
Friday, September 25, 2009
Brazil's VP Announces Desire For Nuclear Weapons
Brazil's VP Announces Desire For Nuclear Weapons
Brazil VP Says Country Should Build Nuclear Arms -- Yahoo News/AP
BRASILIA, Brazil – Brazil's vice president says in an interview published Friday that his country should develop nuclear weapons. Other officials stressed that his comments were not government policy.
Jose Alencar, who also served as defense minister from 2004 to 2006, said in an interview with journalists from several Brazilian news media that his country does not have a program to develop nuclear weapons, but should: "We have to advance on that."
Read more ....
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090925/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/lt_brazil_nuclear_weapons
Brazil VP Says Country Should Build Nuclear Arms -- Yahoo News/AP
BRASILIA, Brazil – Brazil's vice president says in an interview published Friday that his country should develop nuclear weapons. Other officials stressed that his comments were not government policy.
Jose Alencar, who also served as defense minister from 2004 to 2006, said in an interview with journalists from several Brazilian news media that his country does not have a program to develop nuclear weapons, but should: "We have to advance on that."
Read more ....
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090925/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/lt_brazil_nuclear_weapons
Iran Informs IAEA of Clandestine Enrichment Site
Iran Informs IAEA of Clandestine Enrichment Site
Friday, Sept. 25, 2009
U.S. President Barack Obama, right, delivers a statement today on a newly disclosed Iranian enrichment facility. He is accompanied by British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, center, and French President Nicolas Sarkozy (Jim Watson/Getty Images).
Iran informed the International Atomic Energy Agency this week that it is constructing an underground uranium enrichment "pilot plant" at a site roughly 100 miles southwest of Tehran, the U.N. organization confirmed today (see GSN, Sept. 24).
The existence of the Qum enrichment site -- also confirmed to Iranian state media by an "informed source" -- is certain to heighten international suspicions that Iran's uranium enrichment program is intended to generate nuclear-weapon material.
In a Monday letter to the U.N. nuclear watchdog, Iran billed the facility as a research site that would only produce low-enriched uranium on an experimental basis, IAEA spokesman Marc Vidricaire said, according to Reuters.
See Full Article...
http://gsn.nti.org/gsn/nw_20090925_7624.php
Friday, Sept. 25, 2009
U.S. President Barack Obama, right, delivers a statement today on a newly disclosed Iranian enrichment facility. He is accompanied by British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, center, and French President Nicolas Sarkozy (Jim Watson/Getty Images).
Iran informed the International Atomic Energy Agency this week that it is constructing an underground uranium enrichment "pilot plant" at a site roughly 100 miles southwest of Tehran, the U.N. organization confirmed today (see GSN, Sept. 24).
The existence of the Qum enrichment site -- also confirmed to Iranian state media by an "informed source" -- is certain to heighten international suspicions that Iran's uranium enrichment program is intended to generate nuclear-weapon material.
In a Monday letter to the U.N. nuclear watchdog, Iran billed the facility as a research site that would only produce low-enriched uranium on an experimental basis, IAEA spokesman Marc Vidricaire said, according to Reuters.
See Full Article...
http://gsn.nti.org/gsn/nw_20090925_7624.php
What is Iran up to?
What is Iran up to?
Fri, 09/25/2009 - 12:42pm
The big story this morning, of course, is the revelation that Iran has been building a second nuclear enrichment facility. Here's what I think it means, with the caveat that the story is about three hours old and I still have lots of unanswered questions.
To start, it is not good news for those who have been hoping for a gradual improvement in Iran's relations with the outside world, hopes that were already undermined by the repercussions of the fraudulent election this past summer. At a minimum, it is bound to create new doubts about Iranian assurances regarding its nuclear program, although I don't know anyone who took those assurances at face value. After all, the whole idea behind inspections and other safeguards, and the whole reason that Western intelligence agencies have continued to watch Iran closely, is because we don't necessarily believe what Iran's government tells us.
That said, it is not clear from the early press reports exactly how blatant a violation this really is. According to the Washington Post, Iran notified the IAEA on September 21 that it was constructing a new pilot enrichment plant. Assuming that it has not already introduced nuclear material into this facility (and Tehran says it hasn't), Iran is therefore in compliance with the NPT's Comprehensive Full Scope Safeguards Agreement, which requires it to notify the IAEA six months before nuclear material is introduced into any new facility. Iran previously withdrew from the more demanding Subsidiary Agreement 3.1, which would have required more detailed and timely notification, in response to the IAEA's decision to refer Iran's nuclear program to the U.N. Security Council. So from Tehran's perspective, this new facility is not a violation at all: they are permitted to enrich under the NPT and they have complied with the Comprehensive Safeguards agreement by notifying the IAEA of the new facility. (Even that rather generous interpretation might not let Tehran entirely off the hook, however, as it seems likely that they informed the IAEA on September 21 because they had discovered that the United States had penetrated the program and they wanted to pre-empt today's revelation.)
The United States has an obvious response: unilateral withdrawal from Agreement 3.1 is not permissible, and so technically Iran is still in violation of its past commitments, but this legalistic back-and-forth is part of a long pattern. In addition, the U.N. Security Council has passed several resolutions demanding that Iran cease all enrichment, and its refusal to comply provides the main legal basis for sanctions. Iran is hardly the first country to ignore Security Council resolutions, however, and Tehran undoubtedly believes that the construction of a second plant is not a direct violation of its more basic obligations under the NPT.
The bottom line is that we still don't yet know just how serious the new discovery is. If nuclear material is already present there (despite what Iran now says), then it is a clear violation of the agreements that Iran's government has repeatedly claimed it is upholding, and thus casts even more doubt on its credibility. If the facility is still under construction and no nuclear material has been introduced, then Iran is technically in compliance of the basic safeguards agreement, and trying to exploit various legal loopholes. (Again, it is defying the SC resolutions, but it was doing that already and so today's announcement adds nothing new).
The New York Times story also makes it clear that this discovery is not by itself evidence that Iran has an active nuclear weapons program. The new facility is an enrichment plant, not a bomb-building factory, and everyone knows that Iran was already producing low-grade enriched uranium. Accordingly, the new revelation does not contradict earlier intelligence estimates which concluded that Iran was not actively trying to build a bomb.
Of course, this does not mean Iran is not interested in getting nuclear weapons, or at least achieving a "breakout" capability that it would allow it to go nuclear rapidly at some point in the future. As I've noted before, there are good reasons why Iran might want a nuclear deterrent of its own, just as there are good reasons why the United States and its allies would prefer that it didn't. In any case, this new report is bound to reinforce suspicions about Iran's long-term intentions and hardliners will undoubtedly use this information to press for tougher economic sanctions. This is of course, why the United States, Britain, and France released it, and if I had to guess, I'd bet that stricter sanctions will in fact be imposed.
That's another puzzle, by the way. The Times's story says the United States "has been tracking the project for years," which makes one wonder why its existence was not disclosed previously. Perhaps the United States was trying to protect "sources and methods," or lacked fully convincing information. In any case, the timing of the release seems to be clearly related to the current push for more stringent sanctions.
Most importantly, this new information does not strengthen the case for using military force against Iran's nuclear program, although hawks are bound to invoke it for that purpose. Airstrikes can delay Iran's acquisition of a nuclear weapon, but cannot prevent it, and they are likely to strengthen Iran's resolve to acquire a genuine deterrent as soon as they can. Attacking Iran will rally the population around the regime, and given Iran ample reason to retaliate against the United States or its allies in Iraq, or Afghanistan, or elsewhere in the Middle East.
If we want to stop an Iranian bomb (as opposed to halting its nuclear enrichment activities), we are going to have to convince Iran that it doesn't need a nuclear deterrent to be safe. That won't be easy to do, given that Iran has three nuclear neighbors (Pakistan, India, and Israel), and a very bad relationship with the United States, which has given millions of dollars to Iranian opposition groups and formally committed itself to regime change on several past occasions. Persuading Tehran that they don't need a deterrent requires taking the threat of force, regime change, and the like off the table, instead of ratcheting the threat level up. I'm not saying that this approach will work; I'm saying that threatening preventive war won't. And actually launching a preventive war is likely to make things much worse.
On this issue, Iran expert Gary Sick has the right idea: "first, do no harm." Iran is committed to mastering the full fuel cycle, and probably wants to get a "breakout capability." Money quote:
The real purpose of negotiations, in my view, is to build a system of monitoring and inspections that will (1) provide maximum early warning of a potential future Iranian decision to "break out;" and (2) insure the maximum possible interval between that moment and the moment where Iran could actually have a bomb. Iran has said on several occasions that it is willing to accept such an enhanced inspection regime, but it will no doubt insist on a price. That, I think, is what the negotiations should be about."
Ironically, today's report may make this solution more feasible, by reminding the Iranian government that hiding a nuclear facility isn't easy -- especially when the outside world is suspicious -- and that any attempt to renege on a future agreements is likely to be detected. Maybe, just maybe, today's episode will make a deal easier to reach down the road. Not that I'd bet on that.
Stephen M. Walt
http://walt.foreignpolicy.com/
Fri, 09/25/2009 - 12:42pm
The big story this morning, of course, is the revelation that Iran has been building a second nuclear enrichment facility. Here's what I think it means, with the caveat that the story is about three hours old and I still have lots of unanswered questions.
To start, it is not good news for those who have been hoping for a gradual improvement in Iran's relations with the outside world, hopes that were already undermined by the repercussions of the fraudulent election this past summer. At a minimum, it is bound to create new doubts about Iranian assurances regarding its nuclear program, although I don't know anyone who took those assurances at face value. After all, the whole idea behind inspections and other safeguards, and the whole reason that Western intelligence agencies have continued to watch Iran closely, is because we don't necessarily believe what Iran's government tells us.
That said, it is not clear from the early press reports exactly how blatant a violation this really is. According to the Washington Post, Iran notified the IAEA on September 21 that it was constructing a new pilot enrichment plant. Assuming that it has not already introduced nuclear material into this facility (and Tehran says it hasn't), Iran is therefore in compliance with the NPT's Comprehensive Full Scope Safeguards Agreement, which requires it to notify the IAEA six months before nuclear material is introduced into any new facility. Iran previously withdrew from the more demanding Subsidiary Agreement 3.1, which would have required more detailed and timely notification, in response to the IAEA's decision to refer Iran's nuclear program to the U.N. Security Council. So from Tehran's perspective, this new facility is not a violation at all: they are permitted to enrich under the NPT and they have complied with the Comprehensive Safeguards agreement by notifying the IAEA of the new facility. (Even that rather generous interpretation might not let Tehran entirely off the hook, however, as it seems likely that they informed the IAEA on September 21 because they had discovered that the United States had penetrated the program and they wanted to pre-empt today's revelation.)
The United States has an obvious response: unilateral withdrawal from Agreement 3.1 is not permissible, and so technically Iran is still in violation of its past commitments, but this legalistic back-and-forth is part of a long pattern. In addition, the U.N. Security Council has passed several resolutions demanding that Iran cease all enrichment, and its refusal to comply provides the main legal basis for sanctions. Iran is hardly the first country to ignore Security Council resolutions, however, and Tehran undoubtedly believes that the construction of a second plant is not a direct violation of its more basic obligations under the NPT.
The bottom line is that we still don't yet know just how serious the new discovery is. If nuclear material is already present there (despite what Iran now says), then it is a clear violation of the agreements that Iran's government has repeatedly claimed it is upholding, and thus casts even more doubt on its credibility. If the facility is still under construction and no nuclear material has been introduced, then Iran is technically in compliance of the basic safeguards agreement, and trying to exploit various legal loopholes. (Again, it is defying the SC resolutions, but it was doing that already and so today's announcement adds nothing new).
The New York Times story also makes it clear that this discovery is not by itself evidence that Iran has an active nuclear weapons program. The new facility is an enrichment plant, not a bomb-building factory, and everyone knows that Iran was already producing low-grade enriched uranium. Accordingly, the new revelation does not contradict earlier intelligence estimates which concluded that Iran was not actively trying to build a bomb.
Of course, this does not mean Iran is not interested in getting nuclear weapons, or at least achieving a "breakout" capability that it would allow it to go nuclear rapidly at some point in the future. As I've noted before, there are good reasons why Iran might want a nuclear deterrent of its own, just as there are good reasons why the United States and its allies would prefer that it didn't. In any case, this new report is bound to reinforce suspicions about Iran's long-term intentions and hardliners will undoubtedly use this information to press for tougher economic sanctions. This is of course, why the United States, Britain, and France released it, and if I had to guess, I'd bet that stricter sanctions will in fact be imposed.
That's another puzzle, by the way. The Times's story says the United States "has been tracking the project for years," which makes one wonder why its existence was not disclosed previously. Perhaps the United States was trying to protect "sources and methods," or lacked fully convincing information. In any case, the timing of the release seems to be clearly related to the current push for more stringent sanctions.
Most importantly, this new information does not strengthen the case for using military force against Iran's nuclear program, although hawks are bound to invoke it for that purpose. Airstrikes can delay Iran's acquisition of a nuclear weapon, but cannot prevent it, and they are likely to strengthen Iran's resolve to acquire a genuine deterrent as soon as they can. Attacking Iran will rally the population around the regime, and given Iran ample reason to retaliate against the United States or its allies in Iraq, or Afghanistan, or elsewhere in the Middle East.
If we want to stop an Iranian bomb (as opposed to halting its nuclear enrichment activities), we are going to have to convince Iran that it doesn't need a nuclear deterrent to be safe. That won't be easy to do, given that Iran has three nuclear neighbors (Pakistan, India, and Israel), and a very bad relationship with the United States, which has given millions of dollars to Iranian opposition groups and formally committed itself to regime change on several past occasions. Persuading Tehran that they don't need a deterrent requires taking the threat of force, regime change, and the like off the table, instead of ratcheting the threat level up. I'm not saying that this approach will work; I'm saying that threatening preventive war won't. And actually launching a preventive war is likely to make things much worse.
On this issue, Iran expert Gary Sick has the right idea: "first, do no harm." Iran is committed to mastering the full fuel cycle, and probably wants to get a "breakout capability." Money quote:
The real purpose of negotiations, in my view, is to build a system of monitoring and inspections that will (1) provide maximum early warning of a potential future Iranian decision to "break out;" and (2) insure the maximum possible interval between that moment and the moment where Iran could actually have a bomb. Iran has said on several occasions that it is willing to accept such an enhanced inspection regime, but it will no doubt insist on a price. That, I think, is what the negotiations should be about."
Ironically, today's report may make this solution more feasible, by reminding the Iranian government that hiding a nuclear facility isn't easy -- especially when the outside world is suspicious -- and that any attempt to renege on a future agreements is likely to be detected. Maybe, just maybe, today's episode will make a deal easier to reach down the road. Not that I'd bet on that.
Stephen M. Walt
http://walt.foreignpolicy.com/
China Opposes Iran Sanctions Sought by US - Andrew Jacobs, New York Times.
China Opposes Iran Sanctions Sought by US - Andrew Jacobs, New York Times.
China will not support increased sanctions on Iran as a way to curb its nuclear program, a government spokeswoman said Thursday. Although China has generally opposed the use of sanctions, the announcement is sure to complicate President Obama’s efforts to impose tougher penalties on Iran, should international talks over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, scheduled for Oct. 1, fail to make headway. “We always believe that sanctions and pressure are not the way out,” said Jiang Yu, a foreign ministry spokeswoman, during a news conference. “At present, it is not conducive to diplomatic efforts.” On Wednesday, the White House savored success after Russia, a longtime opponent of economic sanctions, said it would consider tough new sanctions against Iran. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China has veto power over any decision by the body to impose sanctions.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/25/world/asia/25beijing.html?_r=1&ref=world
China will not support increased sanctions on Iran as a way to curb its nuclear program, a government spokeswoman said Thursday. Although China has generally opposed the use of sanctions, the announcement is sure to complicate President Obama’s efforts to impose tougher penalties on Iran, should international talks over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, scheduled for Oct. 1, fail to make headway. “We always believe that sanctions and pressure are not the way out,” said Jiang Yu, a foreign ministry spokeswoman, during a news conference. “At present, it is not conducive to diplomatic efforts.” On Wednesday, the White House savored success after Russia, a longtime opponent of economic sanctions, said it would consider tough new sanctions against Iran. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China has veto power over any decision by the body to impose sanctions.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/25/world/asia/25beijing.html?_r=1&ref=world
Iran Has a Secret Nuke Plant from Danger Room by Noah Shachtman
Iran Has a Secret Nuke Plant
from Danger Room by Noah Shachtman
Iran has been building a clandestine, underground nuclear enrichment facility, the Tehran regime has admitted. President Obama said the plant, and the larger Iranian nuclear program, was “threatening the stability and the security of the region and of the world.”
The plant — built inside a mountain near the ancient holy city of Qum, 100 miles southwest of Tehran — is not yet complete. Nor has any nuclear material has been introduced into the “pilot” facility, according to International Atomic Energy Agency spokesman Marc Vidricaire. In a letter to the IAEA, Tehran “said the plant would not enrich uranium beyond the 5 percent level suitable for civilian energy production. That would be substantially below the threshold of 90 percent or more needed for a weapon,” the Associated Press reports.
The plant, however, would be in violation of international nuclear-control agreements, and the latest example of Iran’s attempts to hide parts of their atomic program from the world.
“As the international community knows, this is not the first time Iran has concealed information about its nuclear program. Iran has a right to peaceful nuclear power that meets the energy needs of its people. But the size and the configuration of this facility is inconsistent with a peaceful program. Iran is breaking rules that all nations must follow,” President Obama just said at a meeting of the G20 in Pittsburgh.
“The level of deception by the Iranian government and the scale of what we believe is the breach of international commitments will shock and anger the whole international community. And it will harden our resolve,” British Prime Minister Gordon Brown added. “Confronted by the serial deception of many years the international community has no choice today but to draw a line in the sand… We are prepared to offer further and more stringent sanctions.”
The Iranians “have cheated three times,” one senior administration official told the New York Times last night. “And they have now been caught three times.”
The official was referring to the revelations by an Iranian dissident group that led to the discovery of the underground plant at Natanz in 2002, and the evidence developed two years ago — after Iran’s computer networks were pierced by American intelligence agencies — that the country had secretly sought to design a nuclear warhead.
[Photo: via NYT]
http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2009/09/iran-has-a-secret-nuke-plant/
from Danger Room by Noah Shachtman
Iran has been building a clandestine, underground nuclear enrichment facility, the Tehran regime has admitted. President Obama said the plant, and the larger Iranian nuclear program, was “threatening the stability and the security of the region and of the world.”
The plant — built inside a mountain near the ancient holy city of Qum, 100 miles southwest of Tehran — is not yet complete. Nor has any nuclear material has been introduced into the “pilot” facility, according to International Atomic Energy Agency spokesman Marc Vidricaire. In a letter to the IAEA, Tehran “said the plant would not enrich uranium beyond the 5 percent level suitable for civilian energy production. That would be substantially below the threshold of 90 percent or more needed for a weapon,” the Associated Press reports.
The plant, however, would be in violation of international nuclear-control agreements, and the latest example of Iran’s attempts to hide parts of their atomic program from the world.
“As the international community knows, this is not the first time Iran has concealed information about its nuclear program. Iran has a right to peaceful nuclear power that meets the energy needs of its people. But the size and the configuration of this facility is inconsistent with a peaceful program. Iran is breaking rules that all nations must follow,” President Obama just said at a meeting of the G20 in Pittsburgh.
“The level of deception by the Iranian government and the scale of what we believe is the breach of international commitments will shock and anger the whole international community. And it will harden our resolve,” British Prime Minister Gordon Brown added. “Confronted by the serial deception of many years the international community has no choice today but to draw a line in the sand… We are prepared to offer further and more stringent sanctions.”
The Iranians “have cheated three times,” one senior administration official told the New York Times last night. “And they have now been caught three times.”
The official was referring to the revelations by an Iranian dissident group that led to the discovery of the underground plant at Natanz in 2002, and the evidence developed two years ago — after Iran’s computer networks were pierced by American intelligence agencies — that the country had secretly sought to design a nuclear warhead.
[Photo: via NYT]
http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2009/09/iran-has-a-secret-nuke-plant/
The Iran nuclear revelation from Marc Lynch
The Iran nuclear revelation
from Marc Lynch by Marc Lynch
Last night, President Obama along with Prime Minister Gordon Brown and President Nikolas Sarkozy announced that the IAEA had been presented with detailed evidence about the existence of a previously undisclosed Iranian nuclear enrichment facility. While there's always good reason to be skeptical about such intelligence claims, in this case it is significant that the Iranians hastened to pre-emptively declare to the IAEA that a "new pilot fuel-enrichment plant is under construction." The U.S. has, from what I can tell, been aware of this site for quite some time, and it has not yet gone operational. So this is not a story of the sudden discovery of an urgent new threat requiring whatever red-blooded solution the hawks will be peddling today. The interesting question is why Obama chose to go public with this information now, and how it fits into the administration's diplomatic strategy.
According to the New York Times, the administration went public because the Iranians had discovered that Western intelligence had "breached the secrecy surrounding the project." Perhaps. But it seems rather more likely that the administration chose to go public as part of a calculated effort to ratchet up the credibility of the threat of tough sanctions ahead of the October 1 meeting between Iran and the P5+1 in Geneva. The public disclosure puts Iran on the back foot ahead of those talks, and appears to have encouraged Russia to more seriously consider supporting such sanctions (that, plus the missile defense decision probably). This has to change Iranian calculations -- indeed, the perception that the sanctions are now more likely is precisely what may lead the Iranians to make more concessions to avoid them.
It also demonstrates to the Iranians the quality of Western intelligence and the difficulty of deception and denial -- especially in the atmosphere of (quite warranted) mistrust of their intentions. That may reduce their reasons to oppose the intrusive inspections and monitoring regime which Gary Sick argues is the most likely reasonable negotiated outcome. Such an outcome would be far more in the interests of the U.S., Iran, and Iran's neighbors than any plausible outcome of a military strike, and has to be the target of the engagement process.
So despite what I expect to see swarming the media in the next few days -- wanna bet that John Bolton or John Bolton-equivalent oped is already in production over at the Washington Times Washington Post (sorry, it's hard to tell the difference on foreign policy issues sometimes) -- I actually think that this public revelation makes war less rather than more likely. The timing of the announcement, immediately following the consultations at the UN and the G-20 and just before the Geneva meetings, makes it seem extremely likely that the Obama administration has been waiting for just the right moment to play this card. Now they have. It strengthens the P5+1 bargaining position ahead of October 1, changes Iranian calculations, and lays the foundations for a more serious kind of engagement. So now let's see how it changes the game.
http://lynch.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2009/09/25/the_iran_nuclear_revelation
from Marc Lynch by Marc Lynch
Last night, President Obama along with Prime Minister Gordon Brown and President Nikolas Sarkozy announced that the IAEA had been presented with detailed evidence about the existence of a previously undisclosed Iranian nuclear enrichment facility. While there's always good reason to be skeptical about such intelligence claims, in this case it is significant that the Iranians hastened to pre-emptively declare to the IAEA that a "new pilot fuel-enrichment plant is under construction." The U.S. has, from what I can tell, been aware of this site for quite some time, and it has not yet gone operational. So this is not a story of the sudden discovery of an urgent new threat requiring whatever red-blooded solution the hawks will be peddling today. The interesting question is why Obama chose to go public with this information now, and how it fits into the administration's diplomatic strategy.
According to the New York Times, the administration went public because the Iranians had discovered that Western intelligence had "breached the secrecy surrounding the project." Perhaps. But it seems rather more likely that the administration chose to go public as part of a calculated effort to ratchet up the credibility of the threat of tough sanctions ahead of the October 1 meeting between Iran and the P5+1 in Geneva. The public disclosure puts Iran on the back foot ahead of those talks, and appears to have encouraged Russia to more seriously consider supporting such sanctions (that, plus the missile defense decision probably). This has to change Iranian calculations -- indeed, the perception that the sanctions are now more likely is precisely what may lead the Iranians to make more concessions to avoid them.
It also demonstrates to the Iranians the quality of Western intelligence and the difficulty of deception and denial -- especially in the atmosphere of (quite warranted) mistrust of their intentions. That may reduce their reasons to oppose the intrusive inspections and monitoring regime which Gary Sick argues is the most likely reasonable negotiated outcome. Such an outcome would be far more in the interests of the U.S., Iran, and Iran's neighbors than any plausible outcome of a military strike, and has to be the target of the engagement process.
So despite what I expect to see swarming the media in the next few days -- wanna bet that John Bolton or John Bolton-equivalent oped is already in production over at the Washington Times Washington Post (sorry, it's hard to tell the difference on foreign policy issues sometimes) -- I actually think that this public revelation makes war less rather than more likely. The timing of the announcement, immediately following the consultations at the UN and the G-20 and just before the Geneva meetings, makes it seem extremely likely that the Obama administration has been waiting for just the right moment to play this card. Now they have. It strengthens the P5+1 bargaining position ahead of October 1, changes Iranian calculations, and lays the foundations for a more serious kind of engagement. So now let's see how it changes the game.
http://lynch.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2009/09/25/the_iran_nuclear_revelation
US, French, UK leaders say Iran must abandon nuclear weapons program by year's end - or face sanctions from DEBKAfile
US, French, UK leaders say Iran must abandon nuclear weapons program by year's end - or face sanctions
from DEBKAfile
In a dramatic joint appearance in Pittsburgh, Friday, Sept. 25, Presidents Barack Obama and Nicolas Sarkozy and prime minister Gordon Brown accused Iran of concealing a second uranium enrichment plant near Qom for years from international inspection, in violation of its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty and UN Security Council Resolutions. Taking time out of the G20 summit, they went on live television to declare their willingness for a concerted effort to stop Iran attaining nuclear weapons by the end of 2009.
from DEBKAfile
In a dramatic joint appearance in Pittsburgh, Friday, Sept. 25, Presidents Barack Obama and Nicolas Sarkozy and prime minister Gordon Brown accused Iran of concealing a second uranium enrichment plant near Qom for years from international inspection, in violation of its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty and UN Security Council Resolutions. Taking time out of the G20 summit, they went on live television to declare their willingness for a concerted effort to stop Iran attaining nuclear weapons by the end of 2009.
Chu seeks more loan guarantees for nuclear energy
Chu seeks more loan guarantees for nuclear energy
Energy Secretary Steven Chu aims to increase the department's loan-guarantee authority to help revive the U.S. nuclear energy industry and curb emissions of greenhouse gases. While firms have filed 18 requests for nuclear plant licenses, the agency can only authorize $18.5 billion in loans, which can cover four to five facilities. The U.S. needs to show the industry that it "is serious about investing in nuclear power plants," Chu said. Nasdaq.com/Dow Jones Newswires
http://www.nasdaq.com/aspx/stock-market-news-story.aspx?storyid=200909241923dowjonesdjonline000687&title=us-energy-secretaryto-push-for-more-nuclear-loan-guarantees
Energy Secretary Steven Chu aims to increase the department's loan-guarantee authority to help revive the U.S. nuclear energy industry and curb emissions of greenhouse gases. While firms have filed 18 requests for nuclear plant licenses, the agency can only authorize $18.5 billion in loans, which can cover four to five facilities. The U.S. needs to show the industry that it "is serious about investing in nuclear power plants," Chu said. Nasdaq.com/Dow Jones Newswires
http://www.nasdaq.com/aspx/stock-market-news-story.aspx?storyid=200909241923dowjonesdjonline000687&title=us-energy-secretaryto-push-for-more-nuclear-loan-guarantees
NRC chief: Certifying reactor design first could expedite plant reviews
NRC chief: Certifying reactor design first could expedite plant reviews
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission can evaluate nuclear plants more quickly and efficiently if the reactor design has been certified under the agency's combined construction and operating license process, Chairman Greg Jaczko said. Speaking at a Platts Energy Podium conference, Jaczko said that some COL applications pertain to reactor designs that have not been certified. The NRC is reviewing 13 of the 18 COL applications that it has received, he added. Power Engineering
http://pepei.pennnet.com/display_article/369398/6/ARTCL/none/none/1/NRC:-Nuclear-reviews-faster-if-design-certified-first/
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission can evaluate nuclear plants more quickly and efficiently if the reactor design has been certified under the agency's combined construction and operating license process, Chairman Greg Jaczko said. Speaking at a Platts Energy Podium conference, Jaczko said that some COL applications pertain to reactor designs that have not been certified. The NRC is reviewing 13 of the 18 COL applications that it has received, he added. Power Engineering
http://pepei.pennnet.com/display_article/369398/6/ARTCL/none/none/1/NRC:-Nuclear-reviews-faster-if-design-certified-first/
"Iran Is Breaking Rules That All Nations Must Follow"
"Iran Is Breaking Rules That All Nations Must Follow"
Obama Opens G20 Summit With Dramatic Statement After Iran Acknowledges Secret Nuclear Facility... Read Complete Remarks... New York Times: Obama Privately Pressed Leaders This Week On Iran... Marc Lynch: 'The Iran Nuclear Revelation'
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/25/obama-iran-has-secret-nuc_n_299556.html
Obama Opens G20 Summit With Dramatic Statement After Iran Acknowledges Secret Nuclear Facility... Read Complete Remarks... New York Times: Obama Privately Pressed Leaders This Week On Iran... Marc Lynch: 'The Iran Nuclear Revelation'
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/25/obama-iran-has-secret-nuc_n_299556.html
INTELLIGENCE GUIDANCE (SPECIAL EDITION): SEPT. 25, 2009 - IRAN'S NUCLEAR PROGRAM
Stratfor
INTELLIGENCE GUIDANCE (SPECIAL EDITION): SEPT. 25, 2009 - IRAN'S NUCLEAR PROGRAM
Editor's Note: The following is an internal STRATFOR document produced to
provide high-level guidance to our analysts. This document is not a forecast,
but rather a series of guidelines for understanding and evaluating events, as
well as suggestions on areas for focus.
Iran's revelation of a second enrichment site is not critical in a military
sense. The West always knew the Iranians were playing a shell game. What it does
do, however, is highlight that one of the challenges of the situation is simply
that Western intelligence does not know how good its intelligence is -- until it
is used. So the Iranians are attempting a smoke-and-mirrors strategy in the hope
of deterring an attack. But they also don't know how much the West does or does
not know either.
Far more important was the decision by the leaders of the United States, the
United Kingdom and France to condemn Iran's partial unveiling of this new site,
and to demonstrate clearly that the time for talks is almost over. The round of
talks beginning Oct. 1 has been portrayed by the Israelis as the final round.
Now the United States is publicly saying the same thing, although Obama
continues to say it prefers a peaceful settlement.
There are four issues we need to drill into:
First, will the Russians come on board with gasoline sanctions in this context
or do they continue their opposition? We need to reassess the Russian mood and
see what their lowest possible price is for assistance.
Second, we should start seeing some overt movements by the U.S. military to
spook the Iranians. This will not be the typical watch for carriers moving
toward the Gulf. Between forces participating in the Iraq and Afghan conflicts,
the United States already has more than what it needs to attack Iran. Watch and
evaluate activities in the region itself.
Third, are there any statements out of Israel? They have been forcing this issue
to a head. A lack of statements from them is ominous.
Finally, Iran has the "use it or lose it" option with mines. If they feel attack
is imminent, will they use the mines? The United States must act against the
mines before anything else if this is not to cause a global recession on its
own.
Bottom line: If the Iranians indicate that they will not cooperate and the
Russians do not budge on their opposition to imposing sanctions, then war could
come suddenly -- and from the United States. All the pieces for that war are
already in place. It is just a question of nerve -- for all parties.
Copyright 2009 Stratfor.
INTELLIGENCE GUIDANCE (SPECIAL EDITION): SEPT. 25, 2009 - IRAN'S NUCLEAR PROGRAM
Editor's Note: The following is an internal STRATFOR document produced to
provide high-level guidance to our analysts. This document is not a forecast,
but rather a series of guidelines for understanding and evaluating events, as
well as suggestions on areas for focus.
Iran's revelation of a second enrichment site is not critical in a military
sense. The West always knew the Iranians were playing a shell game. What it does
do, however, is highlight that one of the challenges of the situation is simply
that Western intelligence does not know how good its intelligence is -- until it
is used. So the Iranians are attempting a smoke-and-mirrors strategy in the hope
of deterring an attack. But they also don't know how much the West does or does
not know either.
Far more important was the decision by the leaders of the United States, the
United Kingdom and France to condemn Iran's partial unveiling of this new site,
and to demonstrate clearly that the time for talks is almost over. The round of
talks beginning Oct. 1 has been portrayed by the Israelis as the final round.
Now the United States is publicly saying the same thing, although Obama
continues to say it prefers a peaceful settlement.
There are four issues we need to drill into:
First, will the Russians come on board with gasoline sanctions in this context
or do they continue their opposition? We need to reassess the Russian mood and
see what their lowest possible price is for assistance.
Second, we should start seeing some overt movements by the U.S. military to
spook the Iranians. This will not be the typical watch for carriers moving
toward the Gulf. Between forces participating in the Iraq and Afghan conflicts,
the United States already has more than what it needs to attack Iran. Watch and
evaluate activities in the region itself.
Third, are there any statements out of Israel? They have been forcing this issue
to a head. A lack of statements from them is ominous.
Finally, Iran has the "use it or lose it" option with mines. If they feel attack
is imminent, will they use the mines? The United States must act against the
mines before anything else if this is not to cause a global recession on its
own.
Bottom line: If the Iranians indicate that they will not cooperate and the
Russians do not budge on their opposition to imposing sanctions, then war could
come suddenly -- and from the United States. All the pieces for that war are
already in place. It is just a question of nerve -- for all parties.
Copyright 2009 Stratfor.
Iran's new nuclear proposal
Our colleagues over at ProPublica, the non-profit investigative journalism outfit, have secured what they say is a copy of Iran's five-page proposal for negotiations with the United States and other world powers.
Entitled, "Package of proposals by the Islamic Republic of Iran for Comprehensive and Constructive Negotiations," it can be found here. N&S can't yet vouch for the authenticity of the document.
http://www.propublica.org/article/iran-offer-includes-willingness-for-talks-on-nuclear-disarmament-but-no-910
Our colleagues over at ProPublica, the non-profit investigative journalism outfit, have secured what they say is a copy of Iran's five-page proposal for negotiations with the United States and other world powers.
Entitled, "Package of proposals by the Islamic Republic of Iran for Comprehensive and Constructive Negotiations," it can be found here. N&S can't yet vouch for the authenticity of the document.
http://www.propublica.org/article/iran-offer-includes-willingness-for-talks-on-nuclear-disarmament-but-no-910
Missile madness targets the money
Missile madness targets the money
President Barack Obama's decision to shelve plans for an anti-missile defense system in the Czech Republic and Poland continues a decades-long, military and political debate frequently set in terms little more sophisticated than "mine is bigger than yours". None of it is real, except the money, which is very real and very huge. - Julian Delasantellis (Sep 25, '09)
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/KI26Ak01.html
President Barack Obama's decision to shelve plans for an anti-missile defense system in the Czech Republic and Poland continues a decades-long, military and political debate frequently set in terms little more sophisticated than "mine is bigger than yours". None of it is real, except the money, which is very real and very huge. - Julian Delasantellis (Sep 25, '09)
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/KI26Ak01.html
Obama hails historic U.N. resolution to rid world of nuclear weapons
Obama hails historic U.N. resolution to rid world of nuclear weapons
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/sep/24/nuclear-weapons-un-security-council
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/sep/24/nuclear-weapons-un-security-council
Iran tells IAEA it is building 2nd enrichment plant
Iran tells IAEA it is building 2nd enrichment plant
http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSTRE58O1N420090925
http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSTRE58O1N420090925
Thursday, September 24, 2009
China Opposes Iran Sanctions Sought by U.S
China Opposes Iran Sanctions Sought by U.S.: China will not support increased sanctions on Iran as a way to curb its nuclear program, a government spokesman said Thursday.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/25/world/asia/25beijing.html?_r=1
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/25/world/asia/25beijing.html?_r=1
IAEA calls on Israel to sign Non-Proliferation Treaty:
IAEA calls on Israel to sign Non-Proliferation Treaty:
For the first time in 18 years, Israel, the United States and the Western powers were unsuccessful at preventing passage of a resolution calling on Israel to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1115750.html
For the first time in 18 years, Israel, the United States and the Western powers were unsuccessful at preventing passage of a resolution calling on Israel to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1115750.html
The Afghan Disaster by Lew Rockwell
The Afghan Disaster by Lew Rockwell
http://www.lewrockwell.com/rockwell/afghan-disaster130.html
http://www.lewrockwell.com/rockwell/afghan-disaster130.html
A Dangerous US Policy Comes to an End William Pfaff cheers the end of EU-based missile defense
A Dangerous US Policy Comes to an End
William Pfaff cheers the end of EU-based missile defense
http://original.antiwar.com/pfaff/2009/09/23/a-puzzling-dangerous-us-policy-comes-to-an-end/
William Pfaff cheers the end of EU-based missile defense
http://original.antiwar.com/pfaff/2009/09/23/a-puzzling-dangerous-us-policy-comes-to-an-end/
* Canada, Kazakhstan to strike deal involving nuclear technology
* Canada, Kazakhstan to strike deal involving nuclear technology
Canadian Trade Minister Stockwell Day is set today to sign an agreement that would allow the country to export nuclear technology to Kazakhstan. This comes after Day's Ukraine visit, which involved discussions on free trade and Atomic Energy of Canada's Candu nuclear reactors. "We have a very clear indication that they want to see Candus as part of their nuclear energy future," he said. Canada.com/Canwest News Service (9/23)
http://www.canada.com/technology/Canada+pushes+nuclear+technology+Asia/2025433/story.html
Canadian Trade Minister Stockwell Day is set today to sign an agreement that would allow the country to export nuclear technology to Kazakhstan. This comes after Day's Ukraine visit, which involved discussions on free trade and Atomic Energy of Canada's Candu nuclear reactors. "We have a very clear indication that they want to see Candus as part of their nuclear energy future," he said. Canada.com/Canwest News Service (9/23)
http://www.canada.com/technology/Canada+pushes+nuclear+technology+Asia/2025433/story.html
NRC official sees nuclear power in the future of U.S. energy
NRC official sees nuclear power in the future of U.S. energy
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is working to include nuclear power in the country's energy future, Commissioner Dale Klein said. His statement comes as he believes the Obama administration may likely concentrate more on developing power sources such as wind and solar instead of nuclear. "My job as a regulator is to make sure that it's done safely, securely and that we protect people and the environment," Klein added. KIDK-TV (Idaho Falls-Pocatello, Idaho)
http://www.kidk.com/news/local/60815727.html
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is working to include nuclear power in the country's energy future, Commissioner Dale Klein said. His statement comes as he believes the Obama administration may likely concentrate more on developing power sources such as wind and solar instead of nuclear. "My job as a regulator is to make sure that it's done safely, securely and that we protect people and the environment," Klein added. KIDK-TV (Idaho Falls-Pocatello, Idaho)
http://www.kidk.com/news/local/60815727.html
When Zionists made deal with the Nazis By EDWIN BLACK, SPECIAL TO JPOST
When Zionists made deal with the Nazis
By EDWIN BLACK, SPECIAL TO JPOST
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1253627550497&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
By EDWIN BLACK, SPECIAL TO JPOST
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1253627550497&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
Ahmadinejad offers to buy US uranium
Iran prepared to buy its highly enriched uranium from the US
http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=106989§ionid=351020104
http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=106989§ionid=351020104
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
President Obama's Proposals To Implement Iranian Sanctions Are Not Going To Be Accepted from War News Updates by Bookyards
President Obama's Proposals To Implement Iranian Sanctions Are Not Going To Be Accepted
from War News Updates by Bookyards
China is potentially undermining US-led efforts aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear plans by supplying the state with petrol. Photo AFP
China Firms Selling Fuel To Iran As U.S. Sanctions Loom -- New York Times/Reuters
BEIJING/LONDON (Reuters) - State-run Chinese companies are selling gasoline to Iran, a move that could undermine U.S. pressure on Iran to give up its nuclear programme, traders and a newspaper report said on Wednesday.
Although some sources said the trade had been quietly ongoing for at least a year as Chinese companies joined a handful of global oil traders and Indian refiners who regularly sell to Iran, the revelation of this flow comes at a time when Western powers may consider target Iran's fuel imports if it refuses to enter talks over its disputed nuclear programme.
Iran is the world's fifth-largest crude exporter but imports up to 40 percent of its gasoline as it lacks the refining capacity to meet domestic demand.
Read more ....
http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2009/09/23/world/international-us-china-iran-oil.html
More News On Iran Sanctions
Report: Chinese State Companies Supplying Gasoline to Iran -- Voice of America
France against fuel sanctions on Iran: foreign minister -- AFP
China selling petrol to Iran, report says -- AFP
'Iran begins fuel imports from China' -- Press TV
China, Russia wouldn't block new Iran sanctions:EU -- Reuters
Israel calls for 'crippling sanctions' against Iran - Netanyahu -- RIA Novosti
US lawmakers put off new Iran sanctions until after talks -- Washington TV
US lawmakers hold off on new Iran sanctions -- AFP
The Lengthening List of Iran Sanctions -- Council On Foreign Relations
Cracks in Iran’s Clique -- Thomas Friedman, New York Times
A smarter way to sanction Iran -- Christian Science Monitor
I have been observing the evolving Iranian discussion on nuclear programs and sanctions for the past few years. I am dishearten to say that from my vantage point nothing is going to change. In fact .... countries like China and France are actively laying the groundwork for more business and commercial relations that are clear contradictions to their public and official policy of supporting sanctions on Iran.
The reasons why are obvious .... the dependence, need and hunger for oil and energy. On my many trips to China over the past two decades, the need for energy has always been the consuming drive of most (if not all) Chinese foreign policy. Iran has enormous oil and natural gas resources .... and the Chinese are not fools .... they are going to make deals with the devil in order to get their hands on that energy.
Sanctions or not.
http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2009/09/president-obamas-proposal-for-iranian.html
from War News Updates by Bookyards
China is potentially undermining US-led efforts aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear plans by supplying the state with petrol. Photo AFP
China Firms Selling Fuel To Iran As U.S. Sanctions Loom -- New York Times/Reuters
BEIJING/LONDON (Reuters) - State-run Chinese companies are selling gasoline to Iran, a move that could undermine U.S. pressure on Iran to give up its nuclear programme, traders and a newspaper report said on Wednesday.
Although some sources said the trade had been quietly ongoing for at least a year as Chinese companies joined a handful of global oil traders and Indian refiners who regularly sell to Iran, the revelation of this flow comes at a time when Western powers may consider target Iran's fuel imports if it refuses to enter talks over its disputed nuclear programme.
Iran is the world's fifth-largest crude exporter but imports up to 40 percent of its gasoline as it lacks the refining capacity to meet domestic demand.
Read more ....
http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2009/09/23/world/international-us-china-iran-oil.html
More News On Iran Sanctions
Report: Chinese State Companies Supplying Gasoline to Iran -- Voice of America
France against fuel sanctions on Iran: foreign minister -- AFP
China selling petrol to Iran, report says -- AFP
'Iran begins fuel imports from China' -- Press TV
China, Russia wouldn't block new Iran sanctions:EU -- Reuters
Israel calls for 'crippling sanctions' against Iran - Netanyahu -- RIA Novosti
US lawmakers put off new Iran sanctions until after talks -- Washington TV
US lawmakers hold off on new Iran sanctions -- AFP
The Lengthening List of Iran Sanctions -- Council On Foreign Relations
Cracks in Iran’s Clique -- Thomas Friedman, New York Times
A smarter way to sanction Iran -- Christian Science Monitor
I have been observing the evolving Iranian discussion on nuclear programs and sanctions for the past few years. I am dishearten to say that from my vantage point nothing is going to change. In fact .... countries like China and France are actively laying the groundwork for more business and commercial relations that are clear contradictions to their public and official policy of supporting sanctions on Iran.
The reasons why are obvious .... the dependence, need and hunger for oil and energy. On my many trips to China over the past two decades, the need for energy has always been the consuming drive of most (if not all) Chinese foreign policy. Iran has enormous oil and natural gas resources .... and the Chinese are not fools .... they are going to make deals with the devil in order to get their hands on that energy.
Sanctions or not.
http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2009/09/president-obamas-proposal-for-iranian.html
Chief of federal nuclear unit touts role of Idaho National Laboratory
Chief of federal nuclear unit touts role of Idaho National Laboratory
Warren Miller, who was recently confirmed to lead the Energy Department's Office of Nuclear Energy, expects the Idaho National Laboratory to continue advancing its programs on nuclear energy, which he said produces 70% of all carbon-free power. Miller aims to cut U.S. dependence on imported oil by exploring new designs for reactors that can be installed quickly over the next decade. KPVI-TV (Pocatello, Idaho)
http://www.kpvi.com/Global/story.asp?S=11180143
Warren Miller, who was recently confirmed to lead the Energy Department's Office of Nuclear Energy, expects the Idaho National Laboratory to continue advancing its programs on nuclear energy, which he said produces 70% of all carbon-free power. Miller aims to cut U.S. dependence on imported oil by exploring new designs for reactors that can be installed quickly over the next decade. KPVI-TV (Pocatello, Idaho)
http://www.kpvi.com/Global/story.asp?S=11180143
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Harvey Wasserman Tom Friedman's Idiocy Atomique
Harvey Wasserman
Tom Friedman's Idiocy Atomique
http://www.counterpunch.org/wasserman09222009.html
Tom Friedman's Idiocy Atomique
http://www.counterpunch.org/wasserman09222009.html
Leon Hadar's op ed piece on Missile Defense
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/leon-t-hadar/with-missile-shield-chang_b_294438.html
Leon Hadar's op ed piece on Missile Defense
Leon Hadar's op ed piece on Missile Defense
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Nuclear Agency Demanding Iranian Missile Blueprints
Nuclear Agency Demanding Iranian Missile Blueprints
by Gareth Porter / September 19th, 2009 (0)
VIENNA (IPS) — Iran stopped meeting with the International Atomic Energy Agency last year over Western allegations of covert Iranian nuclear weapons work because the nuclear agency was demanding access to the designs for its Shahab-3 missile and other secret military data, according to both Iranian and IAEA officials.
The United States and other Western states have cited Iran’s refusal to cooperate with the IAEA on resolving issues related to intelligence documents on a purported covert nuclear weapons programme as further evidence of its guilt.
“They’ve been asking for Shahab-3 drawings for about a year,” Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations in …
(Full article …)
http://dissidentvoice.org/2009/09/nuclear-agency-demanding-iranian-missile-blueprints/
by Gareth Porter / September 19th, 2009 (0)
VIENNA (IPS) — Iran stopped meeting with the International Atomic Energy Agency last year over Western allegations of covert Iranian nuclear weapons work because the nuclear agency was demanding access to the designs for its Shahab-3 missile and other secret military data, according to both Iranian and IAEA officials.
The United States and other Western states have cited Iran’s refusal to cooperate with the IAEA on resolving issues related to intelligence documents on a purported covert nuclear weapons programme as further evidence of its guilt.
“They’ve been asking for Shahab-3 drawings for about a year,” Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations in …
(Full article …)
http://dissidentvoice.org/2009/09/nuclear-agency-demanding-iranian-missile-blueprints/
Israel Vows Not to Join Non-Proliferation Treaty
Israel Vows Not to Join Non-Proliferation Treaty
http://news.antiwar.com/2009/09/18/israel-deplores-iaea-call-to-join-npt/
http://news.antiwar.com/2009/09/18/israel-deplores-iaea-call-to-join-npt/
Friday, September 18, 2009
IAEA Members Call for Nuclear Weapon-Free Middle East -- Global Security Newswire
IAEA Members Call for Nuclear Weapon-Free Middle East -- Global Security Newswire
http://www.globalsecuritynewswire.org/gsn/nw_20090918_6637.php
More IAEA nations back non-nuclear Mideast in vote -- Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE58G6CH20090917
Nuclear conference criticizes Israeli nukes -- AP
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hnEz0m45RpoqPw1eSBA9sQLziV8QD9APP8BG0
Nuclear watchdog voices 'concern' at Israel -- AFP
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jDwMakaoF_bMvmjRoPqGBODh4sUg
IAEA conference criticizes Israeli nuclear program -- Washington TV
http://televisionwashington.com/floater_article1.aspx?lang=en&t=2&id=14136
http://www.globalsecuritynewswire.org/gsn/nw_20090918_6637.php
More IAEA nations back non-nuclear Mideast in vote -- Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE58G6CH20090917
Nuclear conference criticizes Israeli nukes -- AP
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hnEz0m45RpoqPw1eSBA9sQLziV8QD9APP8BG0
Nuclear watchdog voices 'concern' at Israel -- AFP
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jDwMakaoF_bMvmjRoPqGBODh4sUg
IAEA conference criticizes Israeli nuclear program -- Washington TV
http://televisionwashington.com/floater_article1.aspx?lang=en&t=2&id=14136
U.N. Body Urges Israel To Allow Nuclear Inspections -- Reuters
Nuclear Weapons/Programs In The Middle East -- A News Roundup
Israel is widely considered to be the Middle East's sole if undeclared nuclear power.
Photo AFP
U.N. Body Urges Israel To Allow Nuclear Inspections -- Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/gc08/idUSTRE58H3QW20090918
IENNA (Reuters) - Arab states in the U.N. nuclear assembly on Friday won narrow approval of a resolution urging Israel to put all its atomic sites under U.N. inspection and join the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The Jewish state deplored the measure for singling it out while many of its Islamic neighbors remained hostile to its existence, and said it would not cooperate with it.
The non-binding resolution, which passed for the first time in 18 years of attempts thanks to more developing nation votes, voiced concern about "Israeli nuclear capabilities" and urged the International Atomic Energy Agency to tackle the issue.
Read more ....
Israel is widely considered to be the Middle East's sole if undeclared nuclear power.
Photo AFP
U.N. Body Urges Israel To Allow Nuclear Inspections -- Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/gc08/idUSTRE58H3QW20090918
IENNA (Reuters) - Arab states in the U.N. nuclear assembly on Friday won narrow approval of a resolution urging Israel to put all its atomic sites under U.N. inspection and join the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The Jewish state deplored the measure for singling it out while many of its Islamic neighbors remained hostile to its existence, and said it would not cooperate with it.
The non-binding resolution, which passed for the first time in 18 years of attempts thanks to more developing nation votes, voiced concern about "Israeli nuclear capabilities" and urged the International Atomic Energy Agency to tackle the issue.
Read more ....
Official: Vietnam will expand plan to construct nuclear power plants
Official: Vietnam will expand plan to construct nuclear power plants
Vietnam is stepping up efforts to build nuclear power facilities within the next two decades as it seeks to decrease its dependence on petroleum, said Ta Van Huong, director of the Ministry of Industry and Trade's Energy Institute. The country originally intended to build two plants with a total capacity of 8,000 megawatts by the early 2020s, but Vietnam is now looking into developing more facilities through 2030. Vietnam News Agency
http://vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn/showarticle.php?num=01IND170909
Vietnam is stepping up efforts to build nuclear power facilities within the next two decades as it seeks to decrease its dependence on petroleum, said Ta Van Huong, director of the Ministry of Industry and Trade's Energy Institute. The country originally intended to build two plants with a total capacity of 8,000 megawatts by the early 2020s, but Vietnam is now looking into developing more facilities through 2030. Vietnam News Agency
http://vietnamnews.vnagency.com.vn/showarticle.php?num=01IND170909
IAEA Members Agree on Call for Nuke-Free Mideast
IAEA Members Agree on Call for Nuke-Free Mideast
http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/middleeast/news/article_1501813.php/IAEA-members-agree-on-call-for-Middle-East-free-of-nuclear-weapons
http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/middleeast/news/article_1501813.php/IAEA-members-agree-on-call-for-Middle-East-free-of-nuclear-weapons
Panel: Electrical Grid Vulnerable to Terrorist Attack
Panel: Electrical Grid Vulnerable to Terrorist Attack
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/computersecurity/2009-09-16-electrical-grid-attack_N.htm
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/computersecurity/2009-09-16-electrical-grid-attack_N.htm
IAEA gives ElBaradei honorary title
IAEA gives ElBaradei honorary title
Vienna (AFP) Sept 10, 2009 - The UN atomic watchdog voted Thursday to bestow an honorary title of Director General Emeritus on the agency's controversial chief, Mohamed ElBaradei, who steps down in November. The title was voted on the last day of a meeting of the 35-member board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The resolution is to be formally adopted at the IAEA's general conference next week. ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/IAEA_gives_ElBaradei_honorary_title_999.html
Vienna (AFP) Sept 10, 2009 - The UN atomic watchdog voted Thursday to bestow an honorary title of Director General Emeritus on the agency's controversial chief, Mohamed ElBaradei, who steps down in November. The title was voted on the last day of a meeting of the 35-member board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The resolution is to be formally adopted at the IAEA's general conference next week. ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/IAEA_gives_ElBaradei_honorary_title_999.html
UAE delays 41 bln dlr nuclear plants contract: report
UAE delays 41 bln dlr nuclear plants contract: report
Dubai (AFP) Sept 14, 2009 - The UAE has delayed awarding a 41 billion dollar contract to build nuclear power plants saying that the decision between the three rival bidders was too close to call, an Abu Dhabi daily said Monday. "What happened ultimately was some of the bids were so close in some areas, we decided to proceed with all three," a senior government official told The National. "It will mean a slightly longer ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/UAE_delays_41_bln_dlr_nuclear_plants_contract_report_999.html
Dubai (AFP) Sept 14, 2009 - The UAE has delayed awarding a 41 billion dollar contract to build nuclear power plants saying that the decision between the three rival bidders was too close to call, an Abu Dhabi daily said Monday. "What happened ultimately was some of the bids were so close in some areas, we decided to proceed with all three," a senior government official told The National. "It will mean a slightly longer ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/UAE_delays_41_bln_dlr_nuclear_plants_contract_report_999.html
Pakistani court delays nuclear scientist's case
Pakistani court delays nuclear scientist's case
Lahore, Pakistan (AFP) Sept 15, 2009 - A Pakistani court on Tuesday delayed further hearing a plea from disgraced nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan for alleged security restrictions to be lifted, court officials said. The security arrangements were imposed on Khan after a five-year period of house arrest for operating a proliferation network was lifted in February. Khan's lawyer Ali Zafar said the hearing was delayed until ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Pakistani_court_delays_nuclear_scientists_case_999.html
Lahore, Pakistan (AFP) Sept 15, 2009 - A Pakistani court on Tuesday delayed further hearing a plea from disgraced nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan for alleged security restrictions to be lifted, court officials said. The security arrangements were imposed on Khan after a five-year period of house arrest for operating a proliferation network was lifted in February. Khan's lawyer Ali Zafar said the hearing was delayed until ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Pakistani_court_delays_nuclear_scientists_case_999.html
India, Mongolia sign uranium agreement
India, Mongolia sign uranium agreement
New Delhi (UPI) Sep 15, 2009 - India signed a civil nuclear energy agreement with uranium-rich Mongolia on Monday. The memorandum of understanding for "peaceful use of radioactive minerals and nuclear energy" was signed during Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia's state visit to India. According to a statement issued by the Mongolian presidency, Indian officials expressed a "willingness to cooperate in ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/India_Mongolia_sign_uranium_agreement_999.html
New Delhi (UPI) Sep 15, 2009 - India signed a civil nuclear energy agreement with uranium-rich Mongolia on Monday. The memorandum of understanding for "peaceful use of radioactive minerals and nuclear energy" was signed during Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia's state visit to India. According to a statement issued by the Mongolian presidency, Indian officials expressed a "willingness to cooperate in ... more
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/India_Mongolia_sign_uranium_agreement_999.html
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Spokeswoman: Feds will unveil panel to study nuclear-waste policy
Spokeswoman: Feds will unveil panel to study nuclear-waste policy
The Energy Department is set to introduce a blue-ribbon commission that will look into the management of civilian nuclear waste, spokeswoman Stephanie Mueller said. This comes months after Energy Secretary Steven Chu stated that he would create a committee to study options for nuclear-waste policy. The agency offered no explanation for the delay, but industry experts said one problem could be the Federal Advisory Committee Act, which oversees how such panels are nominated.
http://www.nasdaq.com/aspx/stock-market-news-story.aspx?storyid=200909161911dowjonesdjonline000702&title=us-energy-deptnuclear-waste-panel-announcement-coming-soon
The Energy Department is set to introduce a blue-ribbon commission that will look into the management of civilian nuclear waste, spokeswoman Stephanie Mueller said. This comes months after Energy Secretary Steven Chu stated that he would create a committee to study options for nuclear-waste policy. The agency offered no explanation for the delay, but industry experts said one problem could be the Federal Advisory Committee Act, which oversees how such panels are nominated.
http://www.nasdaq.com/aspx/stock-market-news-story.aspx?storyid=200909161911dowjonesdjonline000702&title=us-energy-deptnuclear-waste-panel-announcement-coming-soon
United States and South Africa Sign Agreement on Cooperation in Nuclear Energy Research and Development R&D Magazine
United States and South Africa Sign Agreement on Cooperation in Nuclear Energy Research and Development
R&D Magazine
U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu and South African Minister of Energy Dipuo Peters signed a bilateral Agreement on Cooperation in Research and Development of Nuclear Energy on September 14 in Vienna. This Agreement will facilitate cooperation in the areas of advanced nuclear energy systems and reactor technology.
Full Article
http://www.rdmag.com/News/Feeds/2009/09/energy-united-states-and-south-africa-sign-agreement-on-c/
R&D Magazine
U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu and South African Minister of Energy Dipuo Peters signed a bilateral Agreement on Cooperation in Research and Development of Nuclear Energy on September 14 in Vienna. This Agreement will facilitate cooperation in the areas of advanced nuclear energy systems and reactor technology.
Full Article
http://www.rdmag.com/News/Feeds/2009/09/energy-united-states-and-south-africa-sign-agreement-on-c/
Israel Says Mideast Not Ready for Nuclear Arms Ban Steve Weizman, Associated Press
Israel Says Mideast Not Ready for Nuclear Arms Ban
Steve Weizman, Associated Press
Israel's defense minister said in remarks published Thursday that the Middle East is too unruly for a region-wide nuclear arms ban, arguing that the Muslim world must first "behave like Western Europe."
Full Article
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gamEQIkjOS-FXZg9lq5CSWeMhK2wD9AP0LF00
Steve Weizman, Associated Press
Israel's defense minister said in remarks published Thursday that the Middle East is too unruly for a region-wide nuclear arms ban, arguing that the Muslim world must first "behave like Western Europe."
Full Article
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gamEQIkjOS-FXZg9lq5CSWeMhK2wD9AP0LF00
IAEA's Poor Nations Split on Iran's Attack Ban Bid Mark Heinrich, Reuters
IAEA's Poor Nations Split on Iran's Attack Ban Bid
Mark Heinrich, Reuters
An Iranian attempt to ban attacks on nuclear sites suffered a setback on Wednesday when fellow developing nations declined as a bloc to endorse a draft resolution, diplomats said.
Full Article
http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE58F41220090916
Mark Heinrich, Reuters
An Iranian attempt to ban attacks on nuclear sites suffered a setback on Wednesday when fellow developing nations declined as a bloc to endorse a draft resolution, diplomats said.
Full Article
http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSTRE58F41220090916
Thorium-Fuelled Exports Coming from India
Thorium-Fuelled Exports Coming from India
World Nuclear News
India has announced intentions to export power reactors to other nations and is developing an advanced design for that purpose.
Full Article
http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP_Thorium_exports_coming_from_India_1709091.html
World Nuclear News
India has announced intentions to export power reactors to other nations and is developing an advanced design for that purpose.
Full Article
http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP_Thorium_exports_coming_from_India_1709091.html
Nuclear-Missile Shield Peter Spiegel, The Wall Street Journal
Nuclear-Missile Shield
Peter Spiegel, The Wall Street Journal
ObamaThe White House is scrapping a Bush-era plan for an Eastern European missile-defense shield, saying a redesigned defensive system would be cheaper, quicker and more effective against the threat from Iranian missiles.
"After an extensive process, I have approved the unanimous recommendations of my secretary of defense and my joint chiefs of staff to strengthen America's defenses against ballistic-missile attack," President Barack Obama said in an announcement Thursday morning.
Full Article
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125317801774419047.html
* George Perkovich: Obama Made the Right Move
http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2009/09/17/is_obama_really_handing_putin_a_victory
* Moscow Welcomes News on Missile Shield, Sees No Concessions in Return
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125318500172519199.html
* NATO Chief Hails Missile Defense "Positive Step"
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hDJHcYcmwFwKeOKgg_ICHBmDPBDAD9AP16O00
Peter Spiegel, The Wall Street Journal
ObamaThe White House is scrapping a Bush-era plan for an Eastern European missile-defense shield, saying a redesigned defensive system would be cheaper, quicker and more effective against the threat from Iranian missiles.
"After an extensive process, I have approved the unanimous recommendations of my secretary of defense and my joint chiefs of staff to strengthen America's defenses against ballistic-missile attack," President Barack Obama said in an announcement Thursday morning.
Full Article
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125317801774419047.html
* George Perkovich: Obama Made the Right Move
http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2009/09/17/is_obama_really_handing_putin_a_victory
* Moscow Welcomes News on Missile Shield, Sees No Concessions in Return
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125318500172519199.html
* NATO Chief Hails Missile Defense "Positive Step"
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hDJHcYcmwFwKeOKgg_ICHBmDPBDAD9AP16O00
AP NewsBreak: Nuke agency says Iran can make bomb
AP NewsBreak: Nuke agency says Iran can make bomb
VIENNA (AP) - Experts at the world's top atomic watchdog are in agreement that Tehran has the ability to make a nuclear bomb and is on the way to developing a missile system able to carry an atomic warhead, according to a secret report seen by The Associated Press.
The document drafted by senior officials at the International Atomic Energy Agency is the clearest indication yet that the agency's leaders share Washington's views on Iran's weapon-making capabilities.
It appears to be the so-called "secret annex" on Iran's nuclear program that Washington says is being withheld by the IAEA's chief.
The document says Iran has "sufficient information" to build a bomb. It says Iran is likely to "overcome problems" on developing a delivery system.
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D9AP714G0&show_article=1
VIENNA (AP) - Experts at the world's top atomic watchdog are in agreement that Tehran has the ability to make a nuclear bomb and is on the way to developing a missile system able to carry an atomic warhead, according to a secret report seen by The Associated Press.
The document drafted by senior officials at the International Atomic Energy Agency is the clearest indication yet that the agency's leaders share Washington's views on Iran's weapon-making capabilities.
It appears to be the so-called "secret annex" on Iran's nuclear program that Washington says is being withheld by the IAEA's chief.
The document says Iran has "sufficient information" to build a bomb. It says Iran is likely to "overcome problems" on developing a delivery system.
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D9AP714G0&show_article=1
Intel Agencies Say No New Nuke Program in Iran
Intel Agencies Say No New Nuke Program in Iran
http://www.newsweek.com/id/215529
Secret updates to White House challenge European and Israeli assessments.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/215529
Secret updates to White House challenge European and Israeli assessments.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
More Threats From Israel On Iran's Nuclear ProgramI
More Threats From Israel On Iran's Nuclear ProgramI
Israel To Strike Iran If No Sanctions -Ex-Deputy Defense Min -- Wall Street journal
LONDON (Dow Jones)--Israel will attack Iran if the U.S. fails to impose effective new sanctions over its nuclear program, a former Israeli deputy defense minister said Tuesday.
In an interview with Dow Jones Newswires, Ephraim Sneh said "whether the U.S. take the decision to embark on crippling sanctions or Israel is in the corner and we are compelled to take an action."
Asked if this action could be sabotage, Sneh said "a military action" without elaborating.
Read more ....
http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20090916-707494.html
Israel To Strike Iran If No Sanctions -Ex-Deputy Defense Min -- Wall Street journal
LONDON (Dow Jones)--Israel will attack Iran if the U.S. fails to impose effective new sanctions over its nuclear program, a former Israeli deputy defense minister said Tuesday.
In an interview with Dow Jones Newswires, Ephraim Sneh said "whether the U.S. take the decision to embark on crippling sanctions or Israel is in the corner and we are compelled to take an action."
Asked if this action could be sabotage, Sneh said "a military action" without elaborating.
Read more ....
http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20090916-707494.html
Nuclear-free zone impossible in anti-Israel Mideast’
Nuclear-free zone impossible in anti-Israel Mideast’
from War in Context by Paul Woodward
‘Nuclear-free zone impossible in anti-Israel Mideast’ By Yossi Melman and Zvi Bar’el, Haaretz, September 15, 2009 [Shaul Chorev, chairman of Israel’s Atomic Energy Commission, in an address to the International Atomic Energy Association in Vienna] stressed that in order for the Middle East to function as a nuclear-free zone, the Arab states in the region needed to [...]
http://warincontext.org/2009/09/16/nuclear-free-zone-impossible-in-anti-israel-mideast/
from War in Context by Paul Woodward
‘Nuclear-free zone impossible in anti-Israel Mideast’ By Yossi Melman and Zvi Bar’el, Haaretz, September 15, 2009 [Shaul Chorev, chairman of Israel’s Atomic Energy Commission, in an address to the International Atomic Energy Association in Vienna] stressed that in order for the Middle East to function as a nuclear-free zone, the Arab states in the region needed to [...]
http://warincontext.org/2009/09/16/nuclear-free-zone-impossible-in-anti-israel-mideast/
NRC proposes 40-year license for on-site nuclear-waste storage
NRC proposes 40-year license for on-site nuclear-waste storage
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission wants to extend from 20 to 40 years the license period for nuclear facilities to store used fuel on-site. Plant operators keep used fuel at their facilities because the U.S. government has not fulfilled contracts to remove such material. Plans to construct a permanent national repository continue to meet setbacks. Energy Secretary Steven Chu has requested that a commission be formed to evaluate possible storage sites and explore reprocessing techniques. Bloomberg
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aQ2PmSlYZZVg
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission wants to extend from 20 to 40 years the license period for nuclear facilities to store used fuel on-site. Plant operators keep used fuel at their facilities because the U.S. government has not fulfilled contracts to remove such material. Plans to construct a permanent national repository continue to meet setbacks. Energy Secretary Steven Chu has requested that a commission be formed to evaluate possible storage sites and explore reprocessing techniques. Bloomberg
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aQ2PmSlYZZVg
Iran says 'new framework of cooperation' agreed with IAEA
Iran says 'new framework of cooperation' agreed with IAEA
Vienna (AFP) Sept 15, 2009 - Iran has agreed new terms of cooperation with the UN atomic watchdog regarding the agency's investigation into Tehran's nuclear activities, a top Iranian official said here Tuesday. But the head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation, Ali Akbar Salehi, declined to say what the new cooperation would entail. A source close to the International Atomic Energy Agency told AFP that nothing ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_says_new_framework_of_cooperation_agreed_with_IAEA_999.html
Vienna (AFP) Sept 15, 2009 - Iran has agreed new terms of cooperation with the UN atomic watchdog regarding the agency's investigation into Tehran's nuclear activities, a top Iranian official said here Tuesday. But the head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation, Ali Akbar Salehi, declined to say what the new cooperation would entail. A source close to the International Atomic Energy Agency told AFP that nothing ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_says_new_framework_of_cooperation_agreed_with_IAEA_999.html
Sanctions forcing NKorea to make peace overtures: SKorea
Sanctions forcing NKorea to make peace overtures: SKorea
Seoul (AFP) Sept 15, 2009 - North Korea is making peace overtures because sanctions are biting harder than expected but there are no signs it is willing to give up nuclear weapons, South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak said Tuesday. Lee said nations negotiating with the North must stay united to thwart its attempts to win tacit acceptance as a nuclear-armed nation. The president, in an interview with Yonhap news ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Sanctions_forcing_NKorea_to_make_peace_overtures_SKorea_999.html
Seoul (AFP) Sept 15, 2009 - North Korea is making peace overtures because sanctions are biting harder than expected but there are no signs it is willing to give up nuclear weapons, South Korean President Lee Myung-Bak said Tuesday. Lee said nations negotiating with the North must stay united to thwart its attempts to win tacit acceptance as a nuclear-armed nation. The president, in an interview with Yonhap news ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Sanctions_forcing_NKorea_to_make_peace_overtures_SKorea_999.html
US to confront Iran over nuclear weapons claims
US to confront Iran over nuclear weapons claims
Washington (AFP) Sept 15, 2009 - The US will confront Iran with accusations it is developing nuclear weapons in crunch talks next month between Tehran and six world powers which are set to be held in Turkey, officials said Tuesday. The announcement that long-awaited talks will take place from October 1 was greeted as a welcome first step by United States officials but a White House spokesman made clear there will be no hold ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_to_confront_Iran_over_nuclear_weapons_claims_999.html
Washington (AFP) Sept 15, 2009 - The US will confront Iran with accusations it is developing nuclear weapons in crunch talks next month between Tehran and six world powers which are set to be held in Turkey, officials said Tuesday. The announcement that long-awaited talks will take place from October 1 was greeted as a welcome first step by United States officials but a White House spokesman made clear there will be no hold ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_to_confront_Iran_over_nuclear_weapons_claims_999.html
Russia seeks Mideast arms sales boost
Russia seeks Mideast arms sales boost
Beirut, Lebanon (UPI) Sep 15, 2009 - Russia's defense industry is in the throes of a major sales drive in the Middle East as it seeks to bolster its dwindling fortunes. Saudi Arabia and Syria are the main targets, but swelling political tensions in the ever-volatile region, as well as a deep Arab distrust of Russian-built hardware that goes back to the Middle East's wars of the 1960s, could militate against Moscow's plans ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Russia_seeks_Mideast_arms_sales_boost_999.html
Beirut, Lebanon (UPI) Sep 15, 2009 - Russia's defense industry is in the throes of a major sales drive in the Middle East as it seeks to bolster its dwindling fortunes. Saudi Arabia and Syria are the main targets, but swelling political tensions in the ever-volatile region, as well as a deep Arab distrust of Russian-built hardware that goes back to the Middle East's wars of the 1960s, could militate against Moscow's plans ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Russia_seeks_Mideast_arms_sales_boost_999.html
VARIOUS RESOURCES
VARIOUS RESOURCES
U.S. military commanders "are responsible for the maintenance of the health of their commands to ensure mission accomplishment in the event of CBRN [chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear] attacks," a new Army Field Manual advises, while noting that "medical planners can expect, as a minimum, 10 to 20 percent casualties within a division-sized force that has experienced a nuclear strike." See "Multiservice Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Health Service Support in a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Environment" (pdf), U.S. Army Field Manual 4-02.7, July 2009. http://www.fas.org/irp/doddir/army/fm4-02-7.pdf
Among those countries that are "known to possess" nuclear weapons, the new Field Manual lists Israel (at page I-4), although neither Israel nor the United States formally acknowledge such possession. This is the second time in ten months that a Pentagon publication has cited Israel as a nuclear weapons state, observed Amir Oren in Haaretz on September 13. A similar reference appeared in the 2008 Joint Operational Environment study. ("Israel as a Nuclear Power," Secrecy News, March 17, 2009). http://www.fas.org/blog/secrecy/2009/03/israel_nuclear.html
Iranian scientists have published a prodigious amount of research in nuclear science and technology in the open literature. A bibliography of such publications is available in a newly updated 195-page compilation (pdf) prepared by Mark Gorwitz.
http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/iran/nuke/gorwitz.pdf
The Congressional Research Service has prepared an updated summary report on "U.S. Arms Sales to Pakistan," with background on recent weapons transactions and their rationale. http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RS22757.pdf
U.S. military commanders "are responsible for the maintenance of the health of their commands to ensure mission accomplishment in the event of CBRN [chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear] attacks," a new Army Field Manual advises, while noting that "medical planners can expect, as a minimum, 10 to 20 percent casualties within a division-sized force that has experienced a nuclear strike." See "Multiservice Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Health Service Support in a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Environment" (pdf), U.S. Army Field Manual 4-02.7, July 2009. http://www.fas.org/irp/doddir/army/fm4-02-7.pdf
Among those countries that are "known to possess" nuclear weapons, the new Field Manual lists Israel (at page I-4), although neither Israel nor the United States formally acknowledge such possession. This is the second time in ten months that a Pentagon publication has cited Israel as a nuclear weapons state, observed Amir Oren in Haaretz on September 13. A similar reference appeared in the 2008 Joint Operational Environment study. ("Israel as a Nuclear Power," Secrecy News, March 17, 2009). http://www.fas.org/blog/secrecy/2009/03/israel_nuclear.html
Iranian scientists have published a prodigious amount of research in nuclear science and technology in the open literature. A bibliography of such publications is available in a newly updated 195-page compilation (pdf) prepared by Mark Gorwitz.
http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/iran/nuke/gorwitz.pdf
The Congressional Research Service has prepared an updated summary report on "U.S. Arms Sales to Pakistan," with background on recent weapons transactions and their rationale. http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RS22757.pdf
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Nevada Test Site Getting New Life Keith Rogers, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Nevada Test Site Getting New Life
Keith Rogers, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Managers of the Nevada Test Site are ready to write a new chapter in the history of the nation's nuclear weapons proving grounds.
Full Article
http://www.lvrj.com/news/59215272.html
Keith Rogers, Las Vegas Review-Journal
Managers of the Nevada Test Site are ready to write a new chapter in the history of the nation's nuclear weapons proving grounds.
Full Article
http://www.lvrj.com/news/59215272.html
China Vows Firm Position on Nuclear Safety Xinhua
China Vows Firm Position on Nuclear Safety
Xinhua
The Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations Office at Vienna, Hu Xiaodi gave a speech in the Board Meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) held in Vienna on Monday, expounding the Chinese government's position on nuclear safety issues.
Full Article
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2009-09/08/content_8664495.htm
Xinhua
The Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations Office at Vienna, Hu Xiaodi gave a speech in the Board Meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) held in Vienna on Monday, expounding the Chinese government's position on nuclear safety issues.
Full Article
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2009-09/08/content_8664495.htm
RI Supports Myanmar's Nuclear Energy Program Lilian Budianto, The Jakarta Post
RI Supports Myanmar's Nuclear Energy Program
Lilian Budianto, The Jakarta Post
Indonesia will support Myanmar's nuclear energy program for civilian use, said a top official on Friday, amid controversy concerning the junta’s poor human rights records and its nuclear weapon ambition.
Full Article
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2009/08/22/ri-supports-myanmar%E2%80%99s-nuclear-energy-program.html
Lilian Budianto, The Jakarta Post
Indonesia will support Myanmar's nuclear energy program for civilian use, said a top official on Friday, amid controversy concerning the junta’s poor human rights records and its nuclear weapon ambition.
Full Article
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2009/08/22/ri-supports-myanmar%E2%80%99s-nuclear-energy-program.html
Folly in India's Nuclear Ways Ramesh Thakur, The Canberra Times
Folly in India's Nuclear Ways
Ramesh Thakur, The Canberra Times
Three recent events reopen the debate on the wisdom of India's nuclear tests in 1998, as judged from within the narrow framework of its own interests. Or rather, they confirm the folly of the tests.
Full Article
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/opinion/editorial/general/folly-in-indias-nuclear-ways/1622844.aspx?storypage=1
Ramesh Thakur, The Canberra Times
Three recent events reopen the debate on the wisdom of India's nuclear tests in 1998, as judged from within the narrow framework of its own interests. Or rather, they confirm the folly of the tests.
Full Article
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/opinion/editorial/general/folly-in-indias-nuclear-ways/1622844.aspx?storypage=1
Iran Sanctions: Why Pakistan Won't Help Omar Waraich, Time
Iran Sanctions: Why Pakistan Won't Help
Omar Waraich, Time
Iran's neighbors could play a decisive role in determining whether any sanctions aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions are effective — and one Iran neighbor from whom the U.S. should expect little support on the issue is Pakistan.
Full Article
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1922166,00.html
Omar Waraich, Time
Iran's neighbors could play a decisive role in determining whether any sanctions aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions are effective — and one Iran neighbor from whom the U.S. should expect little support on the issue is Pakistan.
Full Article
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1922166,00.html
US to Confront Iran over Nuclear Weapons Claims
US to Confront Iran over Nuclear Weapons Claims
Agence France-Presse
The US will confront Iran with accusations it is developing nuclear weapons in crunch talks next month between Tehran and six world powers which are set to be held in Turkey, officials said Tuesday.
Full Article
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iLmPBLbXHC7ysiPl8kEBO4_wcFsg
Agence France-Presse
The US will confront Iran with accusations it is developing nuclear weapons in crunch talks next month between Tehran and six world powers which are set to be held in Turkey, officials said Tuesday.
Full Article
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iLmPBLbXHC7ysiPl8kEBO4_wcFsg
U.S. Drafts New Nuclear Resolution
U.S. Drafts New Nuclear Resolution
Laura Rozen, Politico
ObamaThe United States has distributed a new draft resolution on nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation to other permanent members of the United Nations Security Council that includes a pledge by nuclear states to not use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states. It also would make the "right" of a country to pursue a peaceful nuclear program contingent on not being found in violation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty's other obligations.
Full Article
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0909/27148.html
* Draft of UNSC Resolution on Nuclear Nonproliferation and Nuclear Disarmament
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0909/27123.html
Laura Rozen, Politico
ObamaThe United States has distributed a new draft resolution on nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation to other permanent members of the United Nations Security Council that includes a pledge by nuclear states to not use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states. It also would make the "right" of a country to pursue a peaceful nuclear program contingent on not being found in violation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty's other obligations.
Full Article
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0909/27148.html
* Draft of UNSC Resolution on Nuclear Nonproliferation and Nuclear Disarmament
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0909/27123.html
Crucial Iran nuclear evidence 'covered up'
Crucial Iran nuclear evidence 'covered up'
Iran has submitted serious evidence that documents purportedly showing a covert Iranian nuclear weapons program are fraudulent - but the International Atomic Energy Agency has so far refused to acknowledge it. The nuclear watchdog's apparent lack of concern contrasts sharply with its 2002-2003 probe that exposed as fabricated evidence cited by Washington as justification for invading Iraq. - Gareth Porter (Sep 15, '09)
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/KI16Ak01.html
Iran has submitted serious evidence that documents purportedly showing a covert Iranian nuclear weapons program are fraudulent - but the International Atomic Energy Agency has so far refused to acknowledge it. The nuclear watchdog's apparent lack of concern contrasts sharply with its 2002-2003 probe that exposed as fabricated evidence cited by Washington as justification for invading Iraq. - Gareth Porter (Sep 15, '09)
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Middle_East/KI16Ak01.html
US warns Iran must discuss 'illicit nuclear weapons' program
US warns Iran must discuss 'illicit nuclear weapons' program
Washington (AFP) Sept 14, 2009 - The United States warned Monday that Iran must be ready to discuss its "illicit nuclear weapons program" in crunch talks on October 1 with six world powers concerned about its atomic strategy. Iran denies its uranium enrichment activities are part of an attempt to manufacture weapons. It has said it would be prepared to field questions about the atomic program but will not trade away its ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_warns_Iran_must_discuss_illicit_nuclear_weapons_program_999.html
Washington (AFP) Sept 14, 2009 - The United States warned Monday that Iran must be ready to discuss its "illicit nuclear weapons program" in crunch talks on October 1 with six world powers concerned about its atomic strategy. Iran denies its uranium enrichment activities are part of an attempt to manufacture weapons. It has said it would be prepared to field questions about the atomic program but will not trade away its ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_warns_Iran_must_discuss_illicit_nuclear_weapons_program_999.html
Israel eyes big arms sales in Africa
Israel eyes big arms sales in Africa
Tel Aviv, Israel (UPI) Sep 14, 2009 - Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman's recent five-country tour of Africa was more about building up intelligence links and selling arms than diplomacy, according to one Israeli intelligence specialist. Lieberman didn't sign any arms deals during his swing through Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda. But Israeli officials estimate there are African arms contracts worth ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Israel_eyes_big_arms_sales_in_Africa_999.html
Tel Aviv, Israel (UPI) Sep 14, 2009 - Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman's recent five-country tour of Africa was more about building up intelligence links and selling arms than diplomacy, according to one Israeli intelligence specialist. Lieberman didn't sign any arms deals during his swing through Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda. But Israeli officials estimate there are African arms contracts worth ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Israel_eyes_big_arms_sales_in_Africa_999.html
USAF Strengthens Nuclear Deterrence Operations
USAF Strengthens Nuclear Deterrence Operations
Washington DC (AFNS) Sep 15, 2009 - New initiatives underway within the Air Force to consolidate commands, modernize systems and strengthen personnel emphasize nuclear security. "Nuclear deterrence underpins all of our freedom of movement everywhere," Maj. Gen. Donald Alston, the service's assistant chief of staff for strategic deterrence and nuclear integration told bloggers and online journalists yesterday during a DoDLive ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/USAF_Strengthens_Nuclear_Deterrence_Operations_999.html
Washington DC (AFNS) Sep 15, 2009 - New initiatives underway within the Air Force to consolidate commands, modernize systems and strengthen personnel emphasize nuclear security. "Nuclear deterrence underpins all of our freedom of movement everywhere," Maj. Gen. Donald Alston, the service's assistant chief of staff for strategic deterrence and nuclear integration told bloggers and online journalists yesterday during a DoDLive ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/USAF_Strengthens_Nuclear_Deterrence_Operations_999.html
US fears Latin American arms race
US fears Latin American arms race
Venezuela is buying 92 Soviet-era T-72 main battle tanks, amongst other military hardware.
by Staff Writers
Washington (AFP) Sept 14, 2009
The United States voiced alarm Monday that Venezuela's weapons purchases may be fueling a Latin American arms race after a deal between Caracas and Moscow to buy tanks and anti-aircraft rockets.
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_fears_Latin_American_arms_race_999.html
Venezuela is buying 92 Soviet-era T-72 main battle tanks, amongst other military hardware.
by Staff Writers
Washington (AFP) Sept 14, 2009
The United States voiced alarm Monday that Venezuela's weapons purchases may be fueling a Latin American arms race after a deal between Caracas and Moscow to buy tanks and anti-aircraft rockets.
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_fears_Latin_American_arms_race_999.html
Pentagon backs massive missile sale to Turkey
Pentagon backs massive missile sale to Turkey
Washington (AFP) Sept 14, 2009 - The Pentagon has told US lawmakers it is ready to sell Turkey a 7.8-billion-dollar Patriot missile system, a move designed to bolster its only NATO ally which borders Iran. The sale would include 13 "fire units," 72 PAC-3 interceptor missiles and a host of related hardware, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress in a document obtained Monday by AFP. ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Pentagon_backs_massive_missile_sale_to_Turkey_999.html
Washington (AFP) Sept 14, 2009 - The Pentagon has told US lawmakers it is ready to sell Turkey a 7.8-billion-dollar Patriot missile system, a move designed to bolster its only NATO ally which borders Iran. The sale would include 13 "fire units," 72 PAC-3 interceptor missiles and a host of related hardware, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress in a document obtained Monday by AFP. ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Pentagon_backs_massive_missile_sale_to_Turkey_999.html
Monday, September 14, 2009
Jordan Signs Accord With Tractebel as Part of Nuclear Ambitions
Report: Jordan strikes $12M deal with Belgian firm for nuclear project
Jordan reportedly aims to construct its first nuclear energy facility and curb dependence on foreign oil via a $12 million deal with Belgium's Tractebel Engineering. Citing a Jordanian government official, a news report said Tractebel will conduct a two-year study to gauge safety and environmental risks at the planned site. Jordan's Nuclear Energy Commission is reviewing project proposals including those from France's Areva, Atomic Energy of Canada and Korea Electric Power. Bloomberg
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=ajqpnrSO1utM
Jordan reportedly aims to construct its first nuclear energy facility and curb dependence on foreign oil via a $12 million deal with Belgium's Tractebel Engineering. Citing a Jordanian government official, a news report said Tractebel will conduct a two-year study to gauge safety and environmental risks at the planned site. Jordan's Nuclear Energy Commission is reviewing project proposals including those from France's Areva, Atomic Energy of Canada and Korea Electric Power. Bloomberg
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=ajqpnrSO1utM
GE Hitachi, India are in discussions over nuclear energy venture
GE Hitachi, India are in discussions over nuclear energy venture
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy is in discussions with India's state-run nuclear firm to construct at least six reactors, company executive Danny Roderick announced. The firm said in January that, pending regulatory approval, it could provide India with advanced boiling-water reactors generating up to about 9 gigawatts. GE Hitachi also aims to build 15 to 18 reactors in Europe "between now and 2030," Roderick added. Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssIndustryMaterialsUtilitiesNews/idUSLB10155720090911
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy is in discussions with India's state-run nuclear firm to construct at least six reactors, company executive Danny Roderick announced. The firm said in January that, pending regulatory approval, it could provide India with advanced boiling-water reactors generating up to about 9 gigawatts. GE Hitachi also aims to build 15 to 18 reactors in Europe "between now and 2030," Roderick added. Reuters
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssIndustryMaterialsUtilitiesNews/idUSLB10155720090911
U.S. Expands Global Missile Shield Into Middle East, Balkans - by Rick Rozoff - 2009-09-11
U.S. Expands Global Missile Shield Into Middle East, Balkans
- by Rick Rozoff - 2009-09-11
http://globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=15169
- by Rick Rozoff - 2009-09-11
http://globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=15169
Venezuela to Develop Nuclear Energy With Russian Help
Venezuela to Develop Nuclear Energy With Russian Help
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601086&sid=aElQ3UEU9eYM
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601086&sid=aElQ3UEU9eYM
Joshua Frank Inside Hanford's B Reactor: a Tour of the World's Most Toxic Nuclear Site
Joshua Frank
Inside Hanford's B Reactor: a Tour of the World's Most Toxic Nuclear Site
http://www.counterpunch.org/frank09102009.html
Inside Hanford's B Reactor: a Tour of the World's Most Toxic Nuclear Site
http://www.counterpunch.org/frank09102009.html
NKorean May Test Nuke Again Despite Direct US Overtures
NKorean May Test Nuke Again Despite Direct US Overtures
Seoul (AFP) Sept 13, 2009 - South Korean officials declined to comment Sunday on reports that North Korean leader Kim Jong-Il has called for a third nuclear test in protest at UN sanctions against the reclusive state. Open Radio of North Korea, a Seoul-based rights group, quoting unnamed Pyongyang sources said last week that Kim had told military and ruling party officials to prepare for a new test. ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/NKorean_May_Test_Nuke_Again_Despite_Direct_US_Overtures_999.html
Seoul (AFP) Sept 13, 2009 - South Korean officials declined to comment Sunday on reports that North Korean leader Kim Jong-Il has called for a third nuclear test in protest at UN sanctions against the reclusive state. Open Radio of North Korea, a Seoul-based rights group, quoting unnamed Pyongyang sources said last week that Kim had told military and ruling party officials to prepare for a new test. ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/NKorean_May_Test_Nuke_Again_Despite_Direct_US_Overtures_999.html
US floats nuclear disarmament measure at UN
US floats nuclear disarmament measure at UN
United Nations (AFP) Sept 11, 2009 - The United States on Friday circulated a draft Security Council resolution calling on all nations to cooperate to rid the world of nuclear weapons. The text, a copy of which was obtained by AFP, is up for a vote during a special Security Council meeting on nuclear non-proliferation and nuclear disarmament. President Barack Obama is scheduled to preside over the September 24 meeting, a ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_floats_nuclear_disarmament_measure_at_UN_999.html
United Nations (AFP) Sept 11, 2009 - The United States on Friday circulated a draft Security Council resolution calling on all nations to cooperate to rid the world of nuclear weapons. The text, a copy of which was obtained by AFP, is up for a vote during a special Security Council meeting on nuclear non-proliferation and nuclear disarmament. President Barack Obama is scheduled to preside over the September 24 meeting, a ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_floats_nuclear_disarmament_measure_at_UN_999.html
Friday, September 11, 2009
A Hundred Holocausts: An Insider’s Window Into U.S. Nuclear Policy By Daniel Ellsberg
A Hundred Holocausts: An Insider’s Window Into U.S. Nuclear Policy
Posted on Sep 10, 2009
AP / Joseph Kaczmarek
Firestorms caused by thermonuclear weapons would be the major cause of fatalities. The radius of firestorm damage would be two to five times the radius destroyed by blast.
By Daniel Ellsberg
http://www.truthdig.com/report/item/20090910_a_hundred_holocausts_an_insiders_window_into_us_nuclear_policy/
Posted on Sep 10, 2009
AP / Joseph Kaczmarek
Firestorms caused by thermonuclear weapons would be the major cause of fatalities. The radius of firestorm damage would be two to five times the radius destroyed by blast.
By Daniel Ellsberg
http://www.truthdig.com/report/item/20090910_a_hundred_holocausts_an_insiders_window_into_us_nuclear_policy/
US to host UN summit on nuclear proliferation
US to host UN summit on nuclear proliferation
Washington (AFP) Sept 10, 2009 - The United States on September 24 will host a summit of UN Security Council member states on nuclear non-proliferation, the White House confirmed on Thursday. President Barack Obama is to chair the meeting, which will be held alongside the UN General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York. It will be the first time a US president leads such a summit and just the fifth in UN history that ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_to_host_UN_summit_on_nuclear_proliferation_999.html
Washington (AFP) Sept 10, 2009 - The United States on September 24 will host a summit of UN Security Council member states on nuclear non-proliferation, the White House confirmed on Thursday. President Barack Obama is to chair the meeting, which will be held alongside the UN General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York. It will be the first time a US president leads such a summit and just the fifth in UN history that ... more
http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_to_host_UN_summit_on_nuclear_proliferation_999.html
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