Reinforce and expand diplomatic efforts to revive and strengthen nuclear non-proliferation treaties.
Nuclear War
Nuclear War Risk
Current assessment
The global nuclear threat level is elevated due to increased nuclear weapons spending, modernization of arsenals, and geopolitical tensions, particularly involving Iran and North Korea.
June 13, 2026
Trend
Daily score history for Nuclear War.
Risk Drivers
What is pushing the current reading.
Recent developments indicate a significant increase in global nuclear weapons spending, with the US and UK leading the surge, reflecting a broader trend of modernization among nuclear powers. This escalation is compounded by geopolitical tensions, such as the ambiguous status of Iran's nuclear ambitions and North Korea's continued development of its arsenal, which are exacerbated by weakened diplomatic channels and treaty breakdowns. Historical context shows a shift from Cold War-era arms control agreements to competitive armament, raising the risk of miscalculation or conflict. Emerging technologies like AI further complicate the strategic landscape, potentially destabilizing existing deterrence frameworks.
Risk Reduction Actions
Priority actions generated from the current analysis.
Increase investment in crisis communication channels to prevent miscalculations and accidental escalations.
Advocate for transparency and accountability in nuclear weapons spending and modernization programs.
Develop and implement protocols for the integration of emerging technologies in nuclear command and control systems.
Collaborate with governments to ensure responsible AI development and prevent its misuse in nuclear contexts.
Sources Monitored
Visible feeds used in this category's nightly run.
Selected Articles
Supporting articles referenced in the latest score.
- 9·19 Joint Statement System Ends as Xi Omits Denuclearization Publisher: 조선일보 Published June 12, 2026
- Experts Warn That World Is Facing Increased Nuclear Risk Publisher: 2oceansvibe News Published June 11, 2026
- US nuclear weapons spending jumps 22% to $69.2 billion, ICAN says Publisher: Harici Published June 10, 2026
- Amid Rising Military Tension in War Zones, World’s Nuclear Powers are Modernizing Their Arsenals Publisher: ipsnews.net Published June 9, 2026
- With a 19% Increase... Global Nuclear Weapons Spending Reached Around $119 Billion Last Year Publisher: jordannews.jo Published June 9, 2026