US lawmakers press for transparency on Israel's nuclear capability

A group of 30 Democratic lawmakers has urged the US State Department to break with longstanding silence over Israel's nuclear capabilities.

The letter, sent to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, says the issue has become more urgent amid the US-Israel war on Iran.

The lawmakers asked what nuclear weapon capabilities Israel has, including details on warheads and launchers.

They also sought information on the Negev Nuclear Research Center in Dimona, which has long been believed to be central to Israel's nuclear programme.

In the letter, dated May 4, the members of Congress said they needed fuller information on the nuclear balance in the Middle East and on the administration's planning for escalation scenarios.

They argued that official ambiguity makes coherent nonproliferation policy in the region more difficult.

The request is notable because the US has long maintained ambiguity over Israel's nuclear status, despite repeated public debate in Congress.

Israel is not a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

The lawmakers also said the issue matters for Iran, Saudi Arabia and other states in the region making decisions based on their perceptions of neighbouring capabilities.

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