More NPT threats?

I couldn't help but notice that six, yes six, Arab states are beginning programs to develop nuclear technology, allegedly for peaceful purposes. The news report, linked from Drudge, states that the states want to use the technology for energy and desalination, but the proliferation of reactors in this area should, in my mind, be troubling. The states the article names are Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

Even if these programs are for peaceful purposes, allowed under the NPT, does this development have the potential to cause destabilization in the region(s)? The report notes that many of these states are worried by Iran’s recent actions, but the development of nuclear technology does not necessarily mean the development of weapons grade technology. However, we must realize that peaceful development puts them one step closer to weapons grade enrichment. Is this something that could cause a change in US policy toward these states, especially considering the destabilization that Iran is causing? Does this threaten the future of the NPT, as the article seems to imply?

Clearly, I think this forces the US to pursue a more delicate policy toward the region, but in general, I think we’re realizing that after the Iraq debacle. In terms of the NPT, I don’t think it’s a prima facie threat, but I think it’s a case that will have to strengthen the non-proliferation regime because of the potential danger that this causes. If the states, particularly those who are close to Iran and would have to serve as regional balancers, were to develop weapons, the NP regime would be placed under great stress. So, what I’m wondering is if the NPT could actually survive the challenges of proliferation in this region. Clearly the policy must be “trust but verify” but in the event of a crisis, I don’t think the regime would be able to survive. As much as I hate to admit it, I think the international community must take decisive action now against current proliferators to show potential proliferators that this will not be tolerated. Otherwise, we face certain crisis in the future.