A shocking account from former CIA operations chief James Loller sheds light on how Pakistan’s nuclear program was undermined by leaks involving its own top scientist, Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan. Loller described Khan’s secret dealings, where he allegedly peddled sensitive nuclear technology and classified knowledge to various nations, sending shockwaves through the international intelligence community. Loller recounted that CIA Director George Tenet directly briefed then-President Pervez Musharraf, presenting undeniable evidence of Khan’s transgressions, which included supplying Libya with critical nuclear technology and posing a severe global security risk.
President Musharraf’s response to this revelation was reportedly one of intense fury. Loller quoted Musharraf as exploding and threatening Khan, leading to Khan’s subsequent placement under house arrest for several years. Khan’s name had long been associated with nuclear proliferation scandals and the operation of illicit networks, resulting in his detention in 2004. He eventually confessed to his role in the smuggling ring, while also alleging involvement by Musharraf and former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
Loller further elaborated that the CIA’s extensive surveillance operations confirmed Khan was simultaneously advancing Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities and leaking crucial information abroad. This dual role prompted Loller to dub Khan “the Merchant of Death.” The sophistication of Khan’s network was evident in its reach, extending to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, with evidence indicating Tehran utilized P1 and P2 centrifuge designs smuggled by Khan. Additionally, reports surfaced of ballistic missile data and designs for a Chinese atomic bomb being transferred. Loller warned that a nuclear-armed Iran could precipitate a dire “nuclear pandemic” in the Middle East.