IISS warns of nuclear arms race

2005-10-25 22:14

London - Failure to prevent Iran from building a nuclear bomb could lead to other countries in the region seeking nuclear weapons, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) warned in London on Tuesday.

Turkey and Saudi Arabia could be among the states which would "reconsider their options" regarding nuclear weapons if Teheran obtained the bomb, IISS director John Chipman said.

The institute was presenting its annual international military balance report for 2005/2006.

The IISS said it appeared "unlikely" that European diplomatic efforts to persuade Iran to give up its nuclear programme would succeed.

Britain, France and Germany have been engaged in talks with Teheran in an attempt to persuade it not to resume uranium enrichment.

Chipman said more states will have to join in the international pressure on Iran.

Iran maintains its nuclear ambitions are peaceful. - Sapa-dpa

- SAPA