Iran issues nuclear ultimatum

Iran is threatening to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), a pact the country ratified in 1970. 

The treaty prohibits non-nuclear-armed states from acquiring nuclear weapons, while allowing for the development of nuclear energy for civilian purposes. Only the United States, United Kingdom, Russia, China, and France are officially recognized as nuclear-armed states under the agreement.

Although Iran has abided by the NPT for over 50 years, some lawmakers are now preparing a bill that would allow the country to exit the treaty.

“In light of recent developments, we will make the appropriate decision. The government must implement the laws passed by Parliament, and such a proposal is currently being drafted. We will coordinate further with Parliament,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei during a press conference.

If Iran does withdraw, it would no longer be bound by NPT restrictions, theoretically allowing it to develop nuclear weapons. The United States has insisted on the complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program as part of ongoing negotiations for a new nuclear agreement.

Tehran, however, continues to reject that demand, insisting that its nuclear ambitions are purely civilian. But a recent report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) suggests otherwise, revealing that Iran has been enriching uranium to levels that could potentially be used to develop nuclear weapons in secret.

(QG - Source: Le Figaro - Picture : © Unsplash)