Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East and Turkey's security concerns

Abstract

Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction has always constituted a threat to international peace. International public concern about proliferation of unconventional weapons has rapidly increased since the end of the Cold War. This thesis analyzes the weapons of mass destruction threat against Turkey and its dimensions. It starts with the definition of the concept of threat and the characteristics of weapons of mass destruction. In assessing the threat, deterrence theory is applied. As the theory entails, capabilities and the intentions of possible adversaries are studied. Chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities of Iran, Iraq, Syria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Israel are examined in detail to figure out whether Turkey confronts weapons of mass destruction threat exposure from its neighbors. Alongside the present procurement efforts of the states as the focal point of the study, past attempts to proliferate and the illegal transfers of weapons technology, equipment and leakage of fissile material are presented