Previous think tank studies have explored possible US strategies to contain a nuclear-armed Iran. This study aims to build on those efforts by exploring the policy, defense posture, and budgetary requirements of the United States and its key allies and partners to feasibly contain and deter a nuclear Iran through both military and non-military means.
The project will begin by identifying a range of possible defense strategies for deterring and containing a nuclear-armed Iran. Next, drawing on our understanding of what has been required to deter hostile nuclear states in the past and CENTCOM’s current force posture in the region, the workshop attendees will debate the changes to US force posture that would be effective in helping to deter and contain a nuclear Iran. Having identified the requirements, the group will then move on to consider the budgetary implications of a long-term deterrence and containment strategy. Finally, we will conclude by identifying implications and concrete policy and strategy recommendations.
Participation in this project, which will be led by Scowcroft Center Nonresident Senior Fellow Matthew Kroenig, would involve attendance in workshops on February 21 and March 11. After the workshops, Kroenig will use the content to prepare a short report which will be submitted back to the attendees for feedback and comments.
If you have any questions, or have trouble registering online, please contact Alex Ward, program assistant at the Council’s Brent Scowcroft Center on International Security