Quote Originally Posted by Dayuhan View Post
An Iranian nuclear capacity would certainly have implications for Israel, but I think it would be an error to assume that Israel is the only reason why the Iranian leadership might pursue a nuclear capacity. They have other regional ambitions as well, and a nuclear capacity would provide a deterrent shield behind which other ambitions might be pursued.
That's close, but let's be honest and blunt:

Iran needs nuclear weapons as deterrent against the U.S..
Nothing else has worked against meddling, bullying, pressuring and even naval warfare directed by the U.S. against Iran for 55+ years.

I would seek the possession of nukes if I was head of government in Iran, and I would also do so if Israel and Russia wouldn't exist at all.
I would also seek such a nuclear deterrent without any ambitions in the region.

The only alternative to nukes would be a formal alliance with Russia.