In a significant escalation of Middle East tensions, the United States conducted precision airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities this weekend, including the heavily fortified Fordow site. The move marks a shift from indirect support to direct military action, raising concerns about regional stability and the future of global non-proliferation efforts. CGTN spoke with Wang Jin, director of the Center of Strategic Studies at Northwest University in Xi'an, to analyze the strategic calculus and potential consequences.
Strategic Shifts and Nuclear Resilience
Wang attributed the U.S. decision to a combination of degraded Iranian air defenses from prior Israeli strikes and political pressure from domestic and allied factions. "The strikes were calibrated to disrupt rather than destroy," he noted, emphasizing that while physical attacks can delay nuclear progress, they cannot eliminate Iran's technical knowledge or material stockpiles.
Erosion of International Norms
Both U.S. and Iranian invocations of "self-defense" to justify their actions have drawn scrutiny. Wang warned that unilateral interpretations of security threats risk undermining the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). "If states redefine sovereignty violations as defensive acts, the foundation of international order weakens," he stated.
Regional Domino Effect
The conflict shows signs of potential spillover, with Wang highlighting risks to U.S. bases in Arab states and possible proxy engagements through groups in Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq. "The Middle East could become a fragmented battlefield blending conventional and asymmetrical warfare," he cautioned.
Diplomatic Pathways Remain Open
Despite Iran's rejection of direct talks, Wang identified third-party mediation by Oman or European states as viable. "Military pressure could paradoxically create political leverage for negotiations," he suggested, urging the international community to prioritize dialogue channels.
