Explainer

What to Know About the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as Iran Mulls Exit

Satellite view of the Isfahan uranium-enrichment facility in Iran following Israeli airstrikes, on June 14, 2025.Source: Maxar Technologies

Iran could be poised to withdraw from an international accord that seeks to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. This follows growing tensions with the United Nations’ atomic watchdog, compounded by Israel’s attacks on the Islamic Republic’s nuclear program.

Should Iran pull out of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, it would reduce the chances of a diplomatic solution to Tehran’s atomic ambitions and be a serious blow to global arms-control efforts.