'Over 50%...': Iran's Nuclear Bombshell As Tehran's 'Missile Man' Becomes Defence Minister | Vantage

Iran’s Shifting Strategic Posture

The report argues that Iran is moving toward a stronger deterrence strategy following its recent conflict with the United States and Israel.

Debate over Nuclear Weapons

Citing the Financial Times, the report says support for nuclear weapons has grown among Iranians, with more than half of IRGC supporters reportedly favoring them. Some hardliners are said to consider a nuclear bomb more important than basic necessities.

Iran’s former supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, opposed nuclear weapons on religious grounds. The report suggests his successor may be less opposed, though the subtitles give conflicting names.

New Defence Minister and Missile Programme

Iran has appointed missile specialist Mehrdad Akhlaghi as defence minister. The report says he has spent decades developing Iran’s missile programme and helped create the Sejjil ballistic missile, which can alter its flight path to evade air defences.

In his new role, Akhlaghi is expected to strengthen production and supply chains, despite damage to Iranian military infrastructure from US and Israeli strikes.

Support from Russia and China

The report says Tehran is looking to Russia and China for support as it rebuilds its capabilities. It cites Russian drone supplies and reported Chinese deliveries of portable anti-aircraft systems and artillery.

Iran’s outreach and the appointment of a senior missile engineer are presented as signs that it is preparing for a possible resumption of hostilities.

Key Uncertainty

The report concludes that the key uncertainty is whether Iran’s leaders will decide to pursue nuclear weapons—a choice that could reshape the region.

Presenters and Contributors

• Hem Kaur Saroya
• Josh Barnes, in a closing food-show preview