Fact Check: Israel, not Iran, poses the greatest global threat due to its alleged possession of 200–400 nuclear weapons and its policy known as the “Samson Option

Fact Check: "Israel, not Iran, poses the greatest global threat due to its alleged possession of 200–400 nuclear weapons and its policy known as the 'Samson Option'"

What We Know

The claim that Israel possesses between 200 and 400 nuclear weapons is widely accepted among experts, although Israel maintains a policy of nuclear ambiguity and has never officially confirmed its arsenal size. According to the Columbia Engineering Hub, Israel's nuclear program began shortly after its establishment in 1948, driven by existential threats from neighboring countries. The term "Samson Option," coined by journalist Seymour Hersh, refers to Israel's strategy of potentially using its nuclear weapons as a last resort, akin to the biblical figure Samson who destroyed his enemies at the cost of his own life.

Israel's nuclear capabilities are believed to include various delivery systems such as missiles, aircraft, and possibly submarines, with the Dimona reactor being a significant site for plutonium production. Furthermore, Israel has not signed the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which adds to the international concern regarding its nuclear status.

Analysis

The assertion that Israel poses a greater global threat than Iran is contentious and heavily debated. Proponents of this view often cite Israel's nuclear arsenal and the implications of the Samson Option as evidence of a significant threat. For instance, an article from Business Standard discusses how the Samson Option serves as a deterrent against existential threats, reinforcing the notion that Israel's nuclear capabilities are a critical aspect of its defense strategy.

However, critics argue that framing Israel as a greater threat than Iran overlooks the complexities of regional dynamics. An article from Just International highlights the hypocrisy in the narrative surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions, suggesting that Israel's own nuclear arsenal complicates the discourse on nuclear threats in the region. Furthermore, the Times Now News emphasizes that the Samson Option is a doctrine of last resort, implying that Israel's nuclear capabilities are primarily defensive rather than aggressive.

The reliability of sources discussing these issues varies. While academic and established news outlets provide a more nuanced view, some sources may carry inherent biases, particularly those with political agendas. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the context and motivations behind each source when evaluating the claim.

Conclusion

The claim that "Israel, not Iran, poses the greatest global threat due to its alleged possession of 200–400 nuclear weapons and its policy known as the 'Samson Option'" is Partially True. While it is accurate that Israel possesses a significant nuclear arsenal and has a strategy that could be interpreted as threatening, the broader context of regional politics and the complexities of international relations must be taken into account. The characterization of Israel as the greater threat is subjective and depends on one's perspective on the geopolitical landscape.

Fact Check: Israel, not Iran, poses the greatest global threat due to its alleged possession of 200–400 nuclear weapons and its policy known as the “Samson Option