Iran expected to follow North Korean model

Israeli and Western intelligence sources said Teheran has been in close consultations with North Korea regarding missile and nuclear development. They said Iran has been a leading client of North Korea's exports of missiles and nuclear expertise. ‘The two countries are extremely close on strategic issues,’ a Western intelligence source said. ‘If the North Koreans get away with this test, then Iran could be expected to move in that direction.’ On Monday, North Korea -- believed to have accumulated up to 40 kilograms of plutonium -- announced its first nuclear test. At least one Western intelligence agency confirmed an atomic explosion in a mountain tunnel and expressed concern of yet another North Korean test. Intelligence sources said the agencies would require another two weeks to determine whether the test was successful.