Experts, including James Walsh from MIT, argue that the recent airstrikes ordered by President Trump against Iran could initiate a collapse of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. Walsh emphasizes that while the airstrikes might destroy physical structures, they cannot eradicate the knowledge held by Iranian scientists regarding nuclear weapons creation. Instead of deterring Iran, such actions are likely to embolden its nuclear ambitions and send a clear signal to North Korea not to trust the United States.

Walsh criticizes the rationale behind the airstrikes, stating that they lack a sound policy foundation and are driven by Trump's emotional responses and misinformative intelligence. He highlights the detrimental nature of demanding unconditional surrender from Iran, a nation with a strong sense of pride and identity. Such demands do not provide an exit strategy that could allow the Iranian leadership to save face, likely leading to increased resistance from Iran.

Lastly, regarding the effectiveness of the airstrikes, Walsh expresses skepticism, arguing that they are unlikely to impede Iran’s nuclear program. While acknowledging that some nuclear facilities might have been physically damaged, he insists that this does not equate to the elimination of Iran's nuclear capabilities. The airstrikes may have, paradoxically, reinforced Iran's resolve to pursue nuclear weapons, further complicating the geopolitical landscape in an already tense region.