Iran Considers Leaving Nuclear Treaty After US-Israeli Strikes As Trump Defends Attack

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Iran may reconsider its membership in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) following recent strikes by the United States and Israel on its nuclear facilities.

This development was announced on Tuesday by its foreign minister Abbas Araghchi.

Speaking to Qatari media outlet Al Araby Al Jadeed, Araghchi said the attacks would have “serious and profound repercussions” on Iran’s nuclear policies, warning that the treaty had failed to protect Iran’s rights.

Iran remains a signatory to the NPT, which prohibits non-nuclear states from developing atomic weapons while promoting peaceful use of nuclear energy.

However, tensions have risen after the strikes and amid reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that Iran has not adequately answered questions regarding its nuclear program.

The strikes were ordered by former US President Donald Trump, who claimed they led to the “total obliteration” of Iran’s nuclear capability. Trump, currently attending the NATO summit in The Hague, doubled down on the claim, saying, “It’s gone for years, years. Very tough to rebuild.”

Despite Trump’s assertion, a leaked Pentagon report suggests the damage might only have set back Iran’s nuclear program by a few months. Trump acknowledged the findings were preliminary and “inconclusive,” but said Israeli intelligence would soon clarify the situation.

Trump’s Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio supported the president’s stance, calling the leaked report “low confidence” and hinting at political motivations behind the disclosure. Rubio insisted Iran’s program was now “way behind,” and warned that any attempts to rebuild would be closely monitored.

When asked whether Iran had managed to evacuate enriched uranium before the strikes, Trump said he believed they didn’t have the time or ability. “It’s very hard and very dangerous for them to remove it,” he said. “They knew we were coming.”

In Tehran, Araghchi suggested that Iran may change its outlook on both the NPT and the broader nuclear non-proliferation regime. “We have worked for many years to demonstrate commitment to the NPT, but this treaty has not protected us,” he said.

While Iran’s official stance remains uncertain, Araghchi hinted that “changes” are likely in how the country engages with international nuclear agreements.

Trump also linked the strikes to potential progress in brokering a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict. “Because of the attack that we made, I think we’re going to have some very good news,” he told reporters. “It showed a lot of power.”

As global concerns rise over Iran’s future nuclear direction, the coming days may bring new challenges for diplomatic efforts and international security frameworks.