Flash from the past: Why an apparent Israeli nuclear test in 1979 matters today

Flash from the past: Why an apparent Israeli nuclear test in 1979 matters today

The paper provides technical and circumstantial evidence that the detection of a "double flash" by a Vela satellite on 9/22/79 was that of an Israeli nuclear test logistically assisted by South Africa, putting both countries in violation of their commitments under the Limited Test Ban Treaty. The implications of this are explored in light of the controversy over the Iran nuclear agreement.