Israel and Nuclear Weapons

This in-depth study aims to analyze Israel’s nuclear program, to assess its military potential, and to determine whether Israel has the capability to produce nuclear weapons. It also attempts to determine the role that such weapons might be given in the context of Israeli military strategy and political aims. The first section discusses the origins and development of the Israeli military enterprise, its facilities, research centers, and the institutions that determine nuclear policy. It also describes early atomic cooperation with France and future plans, including the desalination project using nuclear power. The second section discusses the requirements for producing nuclear weapons, in light of Israel’s scientific, material, and financial resources, as well as the obstacles to acquiring fuel and developments in missile-launching technology. The third section examines Israel’s strategic thinking concerning nuclear weaponry, the aims of this strategy and its means, and the circumstances that might be considered appropriate for the use of nuclear weapons as an instrument of Israeli policy.