International report warns of rising nuclear risks amid decline in arms control

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has warned that global nuclear threats are increasing, noting that nuclear-armed states are deploying more weapons ready for use as geopolitical competition intensifies and arms control agreements weaken.

8 June, 2026 19:58

NEWS DESK

A new SIPRI report states that global nuclear risks are on the rise despite a slight decrease in the total number of nuclear warheads worldwide.

The institute estimates that there are approximately 12,187 nuclear warheads globally, with around 9,745 held in military stockpiles available for potential use.

According to the report, the pace of nuclear disarmament is slowing, while the development and deployment of new nuclear systems are accelerating.

The report notes that the United States and Russia still possess about 83 percent of the world’s nuclear arsenal, while China is expanding its nuclear capabilities faster than any other country.

It also highlights ongoing modernization programs in several nuclear-armed states, including France, the United Kingdom, India, and Pakistan, while North Korea continues to expand its nuclear program.

SIPRI further believes that Israel is upgrading its undeclared nuclear arsenal, which it estimates at around 90 nuclear warheads.

The institute warned that the erosion of arms control agreements and growing rivalry among major powers are increasing the likelihood of nuclear risks in the coming years, even though the overall number of nuclear weapons remains lower than during the Cold War.

ANHA