Hot Topic: Iran's Nuclear Program

The current commotion regarding Iran revolves around development of nuclear technology. Iran claims that they are developing nuclear capability for use as an alternative, clean, efficient energy source. Many countries, including the United States, Israel, and countries in the European Union consider Iran’s nuclear program a major threat. They believe Iran is secretly developing a nuclear weapons program.

Iran signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) but violated its safeguards agreement by developing a uranium-enrichment program. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), after inspection, has released evidence that they consider credible that suggests Iran has carried out activities related to the development of a nuclear device.

The United States and the European Union have imposed economic sanctions against Iran in order to cut them off from the international financial system and pressure Tehran to end their nuclear program. In response, Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, and also to cut off sales of Iranian oil to at least six nations of the EU.

Here is a link to the New York Times Topic Page for Iran: http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/international/countriesandterritories/iran/index.html?ref=topics

So, the controversial question follows: Does Iran have the right to develop a nuclear program for peaceful intentions (i.e. energy)? Vote below!

Does Iran have the right to develop a nuclear program for peaceful intentions (i.e. energy)?