Civilian Nuclear Programs in the Middle East: Nuclear Spring or Nuclear Autumn?

In recent years, a not-insignificant number of states in the Middle East have begun to consider seriously nuclear infrastructures for civilian purposes, and some have even begun building them. Iran’s advanced nuclear program and the fears it has spawned have apparently been the catalyst for initiating these ambitious programs. However, those countries that are now examining the nuclear path claim that their main interests are producing electricity and/or desalinating water, and not achieving a nuclear balance with Iran. This article surveys the motives behind the civilian nuclear programs in Middle East states, assesses the significance of these programs, and provides an up-to-date snapshot of the situation.