4.5 Magnitude Earthquake Raises Nuclear Test Speculation in Iran

A 4.5-magnitude earthquake in Iran's Semnan province on October 5 has sparked speculation of a possible underground nuclear test, particularly due to its proximity to a nuclear facility. Various Iranian sources have suggested that high-level discussions regarding a nuclear test are ongoing, coinciding with a U.S. report indicating Iran's ability to produce weapons-grade material in as little as one to two weeks. While the earthquake's depth and absence of seismic compression waves typically associated with natural quakes raise questions, no official confirmation of a nuclear test has been made. Additionally, the timing of the earthquake, alongside a minor tremor in Israel, has intensified concerns and theories about escalating tensions between the two nations. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu convened a security briefing following the quake amid fears of Iran's advancing nuclear capabilities. Speculations on social media have echoed past events, drawing parallels with North Korea's nuclear tests, while experts emphasize the need for careful verification.