Iran probably has the where-with-all to assemble a bomb within a few weeks (they had this capability for several years, according to the Israelis and CIA). All they are doing now is manufacturing more enriched uranium and plutonium for more bombs. Other countries have nuclear weapons as well, including China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and, (surprise) Israel.
True, the US is negotiating with Iran to curtail or control its nuclear program, but we have little real influence over them. Sanctions have hurt, but they've successfully continued with their program. What else can we do, short of war?
I don't believe that the US and the rest of the world really want a war with Iran, it would be bloody, expensive and inconclusive (just as the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have been). Iran's nuclear facilities are deeply underground, buried deep into mountains (consider Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado - it is designed to withstand a nuclear attack).
So you make the best deal you can and continue monitoring the situation for 10 years or so and then reassess, as required. Not much else that can be done.
Interesting thoughts.
But what gives America the right to forbid a sovereign nation from having nuclear power plants?
Or nuclear weapons for that matter? When did we get the nuclear permit franchise for the entire world?
Interesting questions.
Thus far, nuclear nations have exercised restraint (includes the US, Russia, China, France, Britain, India, Pakistan, Israel, South Africa and several former USSR states (SA and former USSR nations had them but gave them up). North Korea is a real issue with a nuclear-armed nut case in charge.
Iran is a bombastic nation led by pragmatic zealots; I believe they will threaten, but probably not use nukes unless really threatened. The Iranian leadership knows that massive fire power will rain down on them if they use such a weapon and whatever they are, they are pragmatic.
North Korea, led by the little idiot with the funny haircut, is another case; it has little to loose in any war (they have nothing anyway) and can inflict a lot of damage - the Supreme leader, Kim Jong-un can only gain respect (i.e., fear) by threatening nuclear warfare, and that is a real problem.
