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Terrorists Are Not Capable of Stealing Nuclear Weapons from Pakistan or India - 2002-09-20

Feb 12, 2026 February 12, 2026 1 min read 📰 VOA Persian
📋 Key Takeaway

A U.S.-commissioned study finds that stringent security measures in India and Pakistan make it unlikely for terrorists to steal nuclear weapons. Professor Hassan Askari Rizvi highlights Pakistan's rejection of U.S. security proposals while acknowledging the need for technological assistance. This is significant as it reflects ongoing concerns about nuclear security in a volatile region.

🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line: The study highlights the effectiveness of nuclear security measures in India and Pakistan while raising concerns about the implications of Pakistan's rejection of U.S. assistance.

👥 Key Players

U.S. Government MENTIONED
Commissioner of the study
"The U.S. plays a crucial role in global nuclear non-proliferation efforts and security assessments."
Professor Hassan Askari Rizvi MENTIONED
Scholar of Pakistan studies at Columbia University
"His insights provide an academic perspective on Pakistan's nuclear security policies and their implications."
Pakistan MENTIONED
Nuclear-armed state
"Pakistan's nuclear capabilities and security measures are critical to regional stability and U.S. foreign policy."
India MENTIONED
Nuclear-armed state
"India's nuclear posture and security measures are significant for regional dynamics and security concerns."

📰 What Happened

A U.S.-commissioned study found that stringent security measures in India and Pakistan make it unlikely for terrorists to steal nuclear weapons. The study highlighted Pakistan's rejection of U.S. proposals for securing its nuclear facilities while acknowledging the need for technological assistance.

  • The report indicates that nuclear weapons in both countries are stored in separate components to enhance security.
  • Pakistan has declined U.S. access to its nuclear weapons program despite recognizing the need for improved security technology.

💡 Why It Matters

🇮🇷 For Iran: Iran may view the findings as a benchmark for its own nuclear security discussions, especially in light of its contentious nuclear program.
🌍 Regional: The study underscores the importance of nuclear security in South Asia, potentially influencing regional security dynamics and arms control discussions.
🌐 International: International stakeholders, particularly the U.S., may reassess their strategies for nuclear non-proliferation and security cooperation with India and Pakistan.

📚 Background

India and Pakistan are both nuclear-armed states with a history of conflict, making the security of their nuclear arsenals a global concern. The threat of nuclear terrorism remains a significant issue in international security discussions.

Nuclear non-proliferation Terrorism and nuclear security
📡 Source: NEUTRAL
📊 Confidence: 70%
The article is based on a U.S.-commissioned study, which suggests a focus on factual reporting but may reflect U.S. interests in nuclear security.

A new study commissioned and funded by the U.S. government indicates that India and Pakistan have implemented stringent security measures regarding the facilities where nuclear weapons are stored. Private experts hired by the Department of Energy state in their report that it is unlikely that terrorists would be able to steal nuclear weapons from Pakistan or India. The report adds that the weapons are kept in separate components to deter thieves. One of the researchers, Professor Hassan Askari Rizvi, a scholar of Pakistan studies at Columbia University, states that Pakistan has rejected the U.S. proposal for securing its nuclear facilities. He noted that while Pakistan acknowledges the need for technology, guidance, and training, it will not allow any American officials access to its nuclear weapons program. Researchers suggest that the threat of terrorists from India is even less likely, although it should not be overlooked.

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Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →

Translation confidence: 85%

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