Which state has resisted international efforts to limit its nuclear energy program?

The correct choice is North Korea, which has notably resisted international efforts to limit its nuclear energy program. North Korea's nuclear ambitions can be traced back to the 1980s, and the country has consistently pursued the development of nuclear weapons despite widespread international condemnation and numerous diplomatic pressures. Various agreements and treaties aimed at curbing its nuclear program, such as the Agreed Framework in 1994 and the Six-Party Talks, have ultimately failed due to North Korea's continued violations and expansion of its nuclear capabilities.

The international community, including organizations like the United Nations and various nations, has imposed sanctions against North Korea to deter its nuclear development. However, North Korea has used this program as a means of enhancing its security and asserting its status on the global stage, often leveraging its nuclear capabilities in negotiations for concessions or aid.

While other states listed have also faced scrutiny regarding their nuclear programs, North Korea stands out for its explicit defiance and the sustained development of its nuclear weapons program in the face of international opposition.