WANA (May 22) – A few weeks have passed since the latest round of nuclear talks between Iran and the United States, and a remark by former U.S. President Donald Trump has made headlines: “Iran is a country with vast oil reserves and doesn’t need nuclear energy.” At first glance, this may seem logical. But when examined within the context of today’s global energy realities, a critical question emerges:

 

If having oil makes nuclear energy unnecessary, then why is the United States—despite its massive oil and gas reserves—the world’s largest producer of nuclear electricity?

 

The United States: An Oil Giant Powered by the Atom

The U.S. is not only one of the world’s largest oil producers, but also operates 93 active nuclear reactors across 30 states. Nuclear energy accounts for roughly 18% of its electricity—about 800 billion kilowatt-hours annually, nearly one-quarter of all nuclear electricity produced globally.

 

This substantial investment in nuclear energy isn’t just a technical decision; it’s a strategic one—driven by goals like reducing dependence on fossil fuels, ensuring energy security, combating climate change, and maintaining geopolitical influence.

 

Why Do Oil-Rich Countries Pursue Nuclear Power?

France, despite having limited oil resources, operates 56 nuclear reactors that supply 68% of its electricity. But more revealing is the growing trend among oil-rich nations:

 

The UAE, with help from South Korea, has four reactors operational or under construction. It aims to generate 25% of its electricity from nuclear energy and reduce carbon emissions by 22 million tons annually.

 

Saudi Arabia, despite its massive oil reserves, is negotiating the construction of at least two large nuclear reactors. Its goals go beyond power generation, extending to desalination, industrial development, and environmental sustainability.

 

China currently operates 56 reactors with 27 more under construction. By 2035, it aims to increase nuclear capacity to 200 gigawatts, backed by a $440 billion investment.

 

Other countries like Egypt, India, Bangladesh, Canada, Ghana, Kenya, and dozens more are also developing or launching nuclear programs.

 

This growing list shows that nuclear energy is no longer a “luxury” or mere tool for showcasing power—it’s a key part of how nations are responding to the global energy dilemma, national security concerns, and environmental crises.

Three Strategic Reasons for the Global Nuclear Shift

1. Sustainability Amid Uncertainty: Fossil fuels are finite. Any country that wants long-term energy security cannot rely solely on oil and gas.

 

2. Energy Independence: In an era of sanctions, price volatility, and geopolitical conflict, depending on a single energy source—even domestic—can be risky. Diversifying energy sources is a smart move.

 

3. Environmental Impact: Contrary to popular belief, nuclear energy is one of the cleanest forms of electricity. It’s carbon-free, low in air pollutants, and highly efficient—making it a critical tool in the fight against climate change.

 

And Then There’s Iran…

Iran may be rich in oil, but it is far from energy-independent. Hot summers with recurring blackouts, a growing industrial sector with increasing electricity demands, and an economy that must reduce its dependence on oil—all make nuclear projects essential.

 

For Iran, nuclear energy is not just a political file—it’s part of the equation for progress, technological sovereignty, economic resilience, and regional strength. Just as the atom symbolizes energy independence for France, it can represent a path to stability and sustainability for Iran.

 

Rhetoric or Reality?

When Trump claims that Iran doesn’t need nuclear energy because it has oil, it sounds more like a political slogan than a technical analysis. After all, the U.S. itself—rich in fossil fuels—knows full well that only those countries that invest in their future energy needs today will remain powerful tomorrow.

 

Oil may be today’s advantage—but nuclear energy is tomorrow’s backbone.

 

Let’s not forget: in the 21st century, energy is not just about keeping the lights on. It’s a form of power. Going nuclear means joining the ranks of nations planning for their future.

 

From this perspective, perhaps the real question should be:

 

Should a country with oil be denied the right to plan for its future with nuclear energy?

 

And if that right is unquestioned for the U.S., France, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—

why should Iran be the exception?