Additional Coverage:
- Iran has developed fentanyl-based chemical weapons (newsbreak.com)
Iran Accused of Developing Chemical Weapons
US experts warn that Iran may have developed chemical weapons using pharmaceutical agents like fentanyl. These agents can be added to weapons like grenades and artillery, incapacitating or killing victims by affecting their central nervous system.
Iran’s chemical weapons program is a concern due to its potential use by militant allies like Hezbollah and Hamas. The weapons could be used for kidnapping or capturing soldiers and civilians.
Despite the Chemical Weapons Convention banning such substances, evidence suggests that Iran is pursuing pharmaceutical-based agents (PBAs). Iran has been accused of using PBAs in the Syrian Civil War and by pro-Iranian militias in Iraq.
Stopping the production of PBAs is difficult because they overlap with legitimate medical and law enforcement uses. However, the US and its allies have implemented diplomatic efforts, sanctions, and law enforcement actions to curb their spread.
Israel is particularly concerned about Hezbollah’s potential use of PBAs in a plan to capture Israeli territory and kidnap citizens. While Israel’s military operations have weakened Hezbollah, the group still has ample stocks of weapons that could be modified with PBAs.
Experts emphasize that PBAs are not as potent as weapons of mass destruction but still pose a significant threat due to their incapacitating effects.
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- Iran has developed fentanyl-based chemical weapons (newsbreak.com)