In a recent interview with Axios, progressive commentator Hasan Piker expressed that he doesn’t have an issue with Iran developing nuclear weapons. When asked whether he thinks Iran should be allowed to build a nuclear weapon, he stated, “I think Iran, much like any other sovereign nation, has a right to defend itself, regardless of its domestic policies.”
Piker referenced political scientist John Mearsheimer, suggesting that “mutually assured destruction is the only way for countries to have sovereignty.” He believes this could lead to greater stability in the region. However, he quickly clarified, “Now having said that, do I want Iran to have nuclear arms? No. But I also don’t want America, or Russia, or China to have nuclear arms either.”
Despite his stance, Piker emphasized he isn’t supporting a nuclear-armed Iran or advocating for weapons-grade enriched uranium. Instead, he remarked that discussions surrounding nuclear arms are more of a “distraction.” He pointed out that the Iranian government has leveraged the enriched uranium conversation to gain concessions from the U.S. in terms of sanctions relief.
Earlier that day, Piker made headlines for claiming that the U.S. is involved in more terrorism than al Qaeda “pound for pound.” This is, understandably, a controversial viewpoint. Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed, who campaigned alongside Piker, has faced questions regarding these comments and has worked to distance himself from Piker’s remarks. “I do not agree with this statement [about al Qaeda],” El-Sayed noted, adding that he’s more focused on the policies of Trump and others that are adversely affecting Michiganders’ everyday lives.
