Vienna: Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi has issued a warning regarding a new phase of nuclear proliferation, which could potentially lead to an increase in the number of nuclear-armed countries from the current nine to as many as 25.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Grossi expressed these concerns during an interview with the Italian newspaper La Repubblica. He emphasized that the likelihood of a nuclear conflict is now greater than ever. Grossi highlighted that certain countries in Asia and the Gulf region are technically advancing toward the capability to manufacture nuclear weapons, despite their obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
The IAEA has expressed fears of a "domino effect" that could trigger a regional nuclear arms race, particularly if Iran were to acquire nuclear weapons or if the United States were to alter its traditional security commitments in East Asia. Grossi stressed the importance of transparency and adherence to international agreements, warning that the world is nearing a "sensitive and unpredictable phase" unless decisive actions are taken to prevent a new nuclear arms race.