The Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Iran Nuclear Deal
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Date
2025-06-01
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kashere Journal of Politics and International Relations (KJPIR), Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) poses a significant threat to
global peace and security, making it a critical area of focus in international relations.
Employing theoretical framework and empirical review methods, this paper used
Liberal Institutionalism (LI) and reviewed more than twelve (12) studies to examine four key
objectives. The paper examined the role of international relations in curbing WMD
proliferation, with a specific focus on the Iran Nuclear Deal, officially known as the Joint
Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The study also explored the multilateral
negotiations that led to the JCPOA, emphasizing the intersection of diplomacy, power
dynamics, and global governance in addressing WMD threats. It analyzed the successes and
challenges of the agreement, of the JCPOA, with a particular focus on the consequences of
the United States‘ withdrawal under the Trump administration, which destabilized the
agreement and reignited proliferation risks. Finally, the study underscored the importance of
sustained international cooperation, robust institutional frameworks, and the delicate balance
of incentives and enforcement in managing WMD proliferation. The findings contributed to
the discourse on how international relations effectively address the proliferation of WMDs,
providing lessons for future engagements in arms control and disarmament. It concluded by
offering policy recommendations for strengthening global non-proliferation efforts,
emphasizing the role of multilateral diplomacy, adaptive agreements, and the need to rebuild
confidence among stakeholders.