Tehran may be able to develop a nuclear weapon within just a few weeks. In an interview, political scientist Nasser Hadian explains that Iran is pursuing more than mere calculated provocation and outlines what steps the West should consider next.

Iran continues its uranium enrichment activities, while the nuclear agreement—formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—is effectively defunct, with efforts to revive it currently on hold.

U.S. President Joe Biden has made it clear that a nuclear-armed Iran would not be acceptable, and Israel has similarly warned it could take military action if Tehran moves forward with building such a weapon.

According to Hadian, who is an Iranian political science professor and frequent participant in high-level policy discussions, the United States has recently re-established indirect communication with Iran through intermediaries. Having earned his Ph.D. in the U.S., he provides insight into Tehran’s high-risk strategy and argues that the West needs to act without delay.

DER SPIEGEL: Despite widespread skepticism, you suggest that the nuclear deal—officially the JCPOA—could soon be revived. What makes you optimistic?

Hadian: All alternatives to the JCPOA are both difficult and expensive. None of them are good options for any side, as they could ultimately lead to war.