This paper proposes possible initiatives for fissile material control that could serve as initial steps toward an eventual Middle East Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone. These initiatives include actions that Israel could take toward nuclear disarmament and measures of collective restraint regarding fissile material production and use to be taken by all states of the region to foster confidence that their civilian nuclear activities are indeed peaceful in intent. Specific measures include no separation of plutonium, no use of highly enriched uranium or plutonium as fuel, and no national enrichment plants. We also propose and review regional verification arrangements that would help build confidence in the absence of secret nuclear weapon programs. Taken together, these building blocks would serve to bring a Middle East nuclear-weapon-free zone closer and make the zone more robust when it is in force.
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