Former U.S. adviser John Bolton has warned that Iran could obtain nuclear weapons from North Korea within 72 hours, raising fears of a major shift in Middle East security.
Former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton has warned that Iran could be just 72 hours away from acquiring nuclear weapons through a deal with North Korea. Bolton claimed Tehran could become a nuclear threat “within about 72 hours if it simply wires the appropriate amount of purchase money to the Central Bank of North Korea.”
The allegation suggests Iran may be seeking nuclear deterrence as its conventional military capabilities face mounting pressure from Israeli and U.S. airstrikes. Bolton said the development points to a suspected “axis of proliferation” between Tehran and Pyongyang involving exchanges of weapons technology for energy resources or financial assets.
Security analysts say such a transfer could significantly alter the strategic balance in the Middle East. Intelligence agencies are reportedly monitoring cargo flights and maritime routes between North Korea and Iran amid concerns the deal may already be in its final stages.