Iran threatens to quit Non-Proliferation Treaty if sanctions reimposed
Gharibabadi said despite internal calls to leave the NPT, especially after Israel and US strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, Tehran has stuck to the treaty for now. But he warned, "But, I'm quite confident that if the snapback is triggered, Iran will not show more restraint in this regard."If Iran does leave the treaty, it would be only the second country to do so, after North Korea in 2003. Although North Korea's withdrawal has never been formally accepted internationally.TENSIONS RISE AHEAD OF TALKS WITH EUROPE AND USIran's warning comes as the US tries again to establish nuclear deal with Tehran. The two sides held several rounds of talks before Israel launched surprise attacks on Iran in June. Gharibabadi said on Wednesday, "the sooner, the better" about restarting negotiations with the US. However, he warned the US against using talks as a cover for military action."Shall we have confidence and trust in the United States again? They should gain the confidence of Iran and come with honesty to the table of negotiations in this regard," Gharibabadi said.Gharibabadi and Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are hoping that sanctions and treaty withdrawal can be avoided through "diplomacy and negotiation." Gharibabadi stressed that Europe should act independently and not follow the US lead."We have always valued our meetings with the European countries. But there is an important issue: I think we have always told them that the policies of the European countries should be independent," Gharibabadi said. "They should not coordinate their positions with the Americans." He added, "If this is the case, why should we negotiate with the Europeans when we can negotiate with the Americans?"Iranian officials say they are open to ideas that would stop more sanctions and avoid making the situation worse.advertisementIn a sign of cooperation, Gharibabadi revealed that a team from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will visit Iran in a few weeks. This is the first time inspectors have been allowed back since recent conflicts between Israel and Iran. However, he noted the visit will be limited to discussions about what the inspectors will be allowed to see, not visits to nuclear sites. Iran feels betrayed by the IAEA's leadership.Iran has been insisting that its nuclear program is peaceful. But it has enriched uranium to levels with no civilian use, blocked inspectors, and expanded missile capabilities. Israel has warned that Iran is moving closer to making nuclear weapons.- EndsWith inputs from AgenciesMust Watch
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