Tehran may be edging closer to reconsidering its commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), as Iranian lawmakers draft new legislation that could pave the way for the country to step away from the international accord.
The Foreign Ministry confirmed on Monday that while the bill is still in its early stages, any future action will be shaped by ongoing regional developments and national interests.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed during a press briefing that although no final decision has been made, recent security events have led to a reassessment of strategic priorities.
“Any move will be taken in alignment with the parliament,” he stated, noting that the executive arm is obligated to implement any ratified parliamentary directives.
Iran, a signatory to the NPT since 1970, maintains that its nuclear ambitions are solely peaceful. The treaty allows the development of civilian nuclear technology under international oversight in exchange for abandoning the pursuit of atomic weaponry.
However, tensions have escalated after Israeli military action last week, citing concerns over Iran’s alleged nuclear weapons capabilities.
Despite mounting accusations, Iranian authorities reiterated that nuclear armament contradicts religious principles.
President Masoud Pezeshkian reaffirmed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a religious decree forbidding the production and use of nuclear arms.
Local Iranian media reported that the NPT withdrawal legislation is still under review and has not been formally submitted for a vote.
One member of parliament noted that the bill remains in its preliminary phase and has not advanced through the necessary legal channels.
Addressing the fallout from Israel’s assault, Baghaei emphasized the influence of external provocations on Iran’s national policy.
He also criticized the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) resolution passed shortly before the attack, implying it served as a pretext for Israel’s aggression.
Baghaei further condemned Israel’s actions, labeling it the region’s only nuclear-armed actor. “The Zionist entity continues to possess and conceal weapons of mass destruction, operating outside the framework of international treaties,” he remarked.
Israel, which is widely believed to have a nuclear arsenal, has never joined the NPT and maintains a policy of strategic ambiguity regarding its capabilities.
