Nuclear Issues

Though nuclear weapons have not been used since 1945, their threat is omnipresent when nuclear powers join the battlefield. CSIS scholars analyze key nuclear policy issues including deterrence, escalation, and arms control.

Photo: Alex Brandon-Pool/Getty Images

Photo: Alex Brandon-Pool/Getty Images

Options for the United States to Resolve the Iran Nuclear Challenge

The nuclear issue is likely to determine not only when the war ends, but also how it ends, and who can claim “victory.” Per Trump’s speech, there are at least three nuclear off-ramps to help the administration retreat from the conflict and avoid a costly war.

Commentary by Heather Williams and Joseph Rodgers — April 2, 2026

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Williams

Heather Williams

Director, Project on Nuclear Issues and Senior Fellow, Defense and Security Department
Victor Cha

Victor Cha

President, Geopolitics and Foreign Policy Department and Korea Chair
Alek Jovovic

Alek Jovovic

Deputy Director, Center for the Industrial Base and Senior Fellow, Defense and Security Department
Joseph Rodgers

Joseph Rodgers

Deputy Director and Fellow, Project on Nuclear Issues

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Options for the United States to Resolve the Iran Nuclear Challenge

The nuclear issue is likely to determine not only when the war ends, but also how it ends, and who can claim “victory.” Per Trump’s speech, there are at least three nuclear off-ramps to help the administration retreat from the conflict and avoid a costly war.

Commentary by Heather Williams and Joseph Rodgers — April 2, 2026

Not a Time for Arms Control With North Korea

The U.S. proposal of arms control, were it to happen, will undo the current structure of deterrence against North Korea’s nuclear threats. It will convince North Korea that its nuclear ambitions have been vindicated as the right course of action and lead it to demand a heavy price.

Newsletter by Ho-Young Ahn — March 18, 2026

Trump’s New Nuclear Architecture for Modernization and Arms Control

The Trump administration recently announced a new architecture for nuclear policy, which includes an enduring commitment to nuclear modernization and arms control. The United States can expand and diversify its nuclear arsenal and work toward nuclear risk reduction measures.

Brief by Heather Williams and Nicholas Adamopoulos — March 13, 2026

What Can the United States and Israel Accomplish in Iran?

Secretary Hegseth called Operation Epic Fury “straightforward.” But while the United States strikes the Iranian navy, nuclear program, and missiles, Israel and Trump eye regime change. This piece deconstructs that daylight and the true cost of each goal.

Commentary by Emily Harding — March 11, 2026

A New Era: Space After New START

In the post–New START era, how can the United States maintain strategic stability and pursue risk reduction—especially in space? As nuclear competition with Russia and China grows, missile defense and space security will shape what comes next.

Commentary by Sean Wilson — March 2, 2026