Iran has announced its intention to withdraw from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) if Western countries activate the snapback mechanism, which would reinstate United Nations Security Council sanctions against Tehran. This statement was made by Esmail Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Western media previously reported that Iranian diplomats had warned representatives of the "E3" (the United Kingdom, Germany, and France) during recent negotiations that Tehran might leave the NPT and revise its nuclear doctrine if the snapback mechanism is triggered.
“Iran has never discussed or negotiated its defensive or military capabilities with anyone. However, if the snapback mechanism is activated, our response will be reciprocal. We will have no reason to remain in certain agreements,” Baghaei said in response to questions about the veracity of these reports.
The snapback mechanism, part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran’s nuclear program, allows for the reinstatement of all UN Security Council sanctions that were lifted under the 2015 agreement if Iran is found to be in violation of its commitments.
The latest round of negotiations between Iran and the E3 on the nuclear program took place in Geneva on January 13. The parties agreed to continue consultations following the discussions.
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Based on TASS materials