Council: Front and Center October 8

Secretary Clinton’s Nuclear Comments Consistent with Expert Analysis 

The New York Times reported that a hacked audio recording of Secretary Hillary Clinton at a fundraiser featured her questioning the current plan to rebuild the entirety of the U.S. nuclear arsenal. The modernization plan could cost up to a trillion dollars over the next thirty years and syphon funds from other defense and national priorities. Secretary Clinton also questioned the need for a new nuclear cruise missile, joining a growing chorus of analysts and experts who view the new nuclear cruise missile, officially known as the Long-Range Standoff Weapon (LRSO), as destabilizing and strategically unnecessary. Click here to learn more. 

Why It’s Safe to Scrap America’s ICBMs 

Former secretary of defense William J. Perry authored an Op-Ed in the New York Times, calling for the phase out of the U.S. ICBM leg of the nuclear arsenal. Such a move, Secretary Perry says, would discourage a new nuclear arms race and prioritize sensible investments in nuclear deterrence — all without harming the U.S. nuclear deterrent whatsoever. Click here to read the Op-Ed.

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My Reality Check About Nuclear Weapons

Since the Cold War ended, the threat of nuclear weapons has not gone away. Yet, for many, nuclear weapons are an afterthought at best. Communications Director Hazel Correa, who, like most, had never worked on nuclear weapons policy before, writes about her understanding of nuclear weapons and defense spending after joining us. It’s a reflection on the very real threat of a nuclear catastrophe. Click here to read what she had to say.

No First Use vs. First Strike

It may seem like an esoteric distinction, but Donald Trump confused the nuclear doctrine of no first use of nuclear weapons and a first nuclear strike at his debate with Hillary Clinton on September 26. Senior Fellow John Isaacs explains why every presidential candidate must know the difference. Click
here to read the piece. 

Infographic: The Iran Nuclear Deal is Working  

The Iran nuclear deal was mentioned during the presidential debate and again during the Vice-Presidential debate. There is one fact about the deal that matters the most: it’s working. The Center’s infographic displays how the deal blocks Iran’s pathway to a nuclear weapon. Take a look below and click here for a printable version.

Infographic: North Korea’s Five Nuclear Tests

One month after North Korea’s fifth nuclear test, the status quo remains: more sanctions amidst international condemnation. The Center’s latest infographic shows how North Korea’s nuclear capabilities have only increased while the the status quo has stayed the same. It’s clear: diplomacy must be on the table. Take a look below and click here for a printable version.

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The history of the Cuban Missile Crisis 

How close did we get to a nuclear war? During the Cuban Missile Crisis, “luck” and the judgement of one Soviet officer prevented a nuclear catastrophe. This Ted-Ed video explains the history of the Cuban Missile Crisis and the lessons we can still learn from it today. Click here to check it out.