Tehran has announced that its Parliament is drafting a bill to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), sparking fresh global concerns over nuclear stability in the Middle East. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stressed that the country's nuclear programme remains focused on peaceful energy and research, citing a religious edict by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei that prohibits the development of nuclear weapons.

Despite reaffirming its opposition to nuclear arms, Iran’s potential exit from the NPT could mark a major shift in regional dynamics. The treaty, established in 1970, aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons while supporting peaceful nuclear cooperation. If Iran leaves the agreement, it could intensify fears of a nuclear arms race in the already tense region.

The announcement comes amid ongoing military conflict with Israel, now in its fourth day. Both nations continue to exchange heavy missile fire, with Israel urging civilians near Iranian military sites to evacuate, hinting at more strikes ahead. The conflict follows years of mounting hostility since the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal, abandoned by the U.S. in 2018, after which Iran expanded its uranium enrichment efforts.