Double standard on N-weapons
Hassan Tahsin; 8/8/08
It is 40 years since the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty was opened for signing in New York on July 1, 1968. Yet it is frustrating and sad to note that the world is inching toward the brink of an apocalyptic nuclear confrontation. A recent report released by the International Atomic Energy Agency estimated that more than 25,000 nuke warheads lying in hidden arsenals across the world are awaiting orders to strike enemy targets. They apparently include vastly destructive bombs and intercontinental ballistic missiles. The UN Security Council is not seemingly enthusiastic about a total ban on nuclear weapons because of the simple reason that all the five permanent members of the council stockpile the nightmarish weapons of mass destruction and keep on updating them. No member wants to cut down the size of its armory. They have also been accused of violating the NPT. To be precise, the sixth clause of the treaty that stipulates that these countries should engage in serious dialogues on the eradication of weapons.
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