I have heard Paul say that he can see why Iran wants nuclear weapons - a bit different from what you are saying. I remember when Pakistan got its nukes following India getting hers. Everyone was sure that was going to result in a nuclear war.
Please send me the quote where Paul says that America should not defend itself. That sounds ridiculous on its face, and another likely misquote. There’s a difference between Isolationist and Non-Interventionist - would you agree?
There already is a power vacuum that started under Clinton and proceeds today with Barry Soetoro. Bush would have been more credible if he fought these last wars to win decisively and get the troops home. If you are going to occupy countries, you have to show them that you are the Victor and they are the Losers. We never did that.
The current govt in Pakistan has not made public statements threatening to bring a nuclear holocaust to America. They have not threatened America with total destruction.
The current govt in Iran has made those threats on numerous occasions.