Nuclear expert Grossi issues alarm over a potential 25-nation possessing nuclear capabilities

Headline: IAEA Director Warns of Increasing Nuclear Threat

The Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has raised concerns about the potential increase in nuclear-armed states from the current nine to as many as 25. In an interview with the Italian daily "La Repubblica," Grossi expressed his worry about the growing risk of a nuclear conflict.

Grossi, an Argentine, did not specify which countries he believes could acquire nuclear weapons, citing his position as the director of the IAEA. However, he did mention leaders of several significant countries as a cause for concern. The five permanent members of the UN Security Council - the USA, Russia, Britain, France, and China - are among the nine nuclear states, as per a report. India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Israel are also included in this group.

The total number of nuclear weapons, according to a report by Sipri, is currently estimated to be around 12,000, all possessed by the nine nuclear states. Grossi stated that countries possessing nuclear weapons are producing more, including China. He also noted conversations about tactical nuclear strikes, which he considers a concerning development.

However, Grossi was quick to clarify that his statements were not intended to spread panic. He emphasized that a world with 20 to 25 nuclear-armed states is unpredictable and dangerous. The countries in question are significant in Asia, the Middle East, and the Persian Gulf, according to Grossi.

Grossi did not express any new countries producing more nuclear weapons beyond the ones previously mentioned (China). He reiterated that he cannot disclose the specific countries he is referring to due to his position as the director of the IAEA. The report by Sipri does not include any mention of new nuclear-armed states beyond the current nine.

The process of disarmament or controlled reduction of nuclear arsenals has come to a standstill, according to Grossi. He believes the risk of a nuclear conflict today is higher than in the past. Grossi, the IAEA head, did not mention any specific tactical nuclear strike discussions.

In conclusion, Grossi's statements serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing nuclear threat and the need for global cooperation in nuclear disarmament. The potential increase in nuclear-armed states from the current nine to 20 to 25, as per Grossi's concerns, highlights the urgency of this issue.

Nuclear expert Grossi issues alarm over a potential 25-nation possessing nuclear capabilities