Withdrawing from the NPT Is Iran’s Legal Right but a Costly Option
webangah News Agency, International Desk: On August 28, 2025, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany activated the trigger mechanism. Iran described this move as unjustified, illegal, and lacking any legal basis. It stressed that it will provide an appropriate response to protect its rights.
the trigger mechanism allows JCPOA signatories to automatically reinstate UN sanctions that were lifted in exchange for limitations on Iran’s nuclear program if there is a “important” breach by Iran. This step could sharply escalate tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear activities.
Professor Hongda Fan told webangah News Agency regarding the possible impact of iran withdrawing from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) on the trigger mechanism: “Given hostile stances by some European countries and the U.S., Tehran definitely needs to respond.Leaving the NPT is one option and a legal right for an self-reliant country like Iran.”
He added that although such a move might not yield tangible benefits for Iran, it would complicate efforts to extend sanction waivers through the Security Council and likely result in harsher international sanctions against Tehran.
Concerning actions Iran can take during this thirty-day period under increased international pressure, Professor Fan said: “Tehran should actively pursue negotiations with both European countries involved as well as with Washington. Negotiating with states that do not maintain a pleasant approach is not a sign of weakness but rather a means to better protect national interests.”
He stressed that Tehran must deliver clear responses aligned with public sentiment and ensure all international talks reflect this alignment.
Furthermore, Professor Fan remarked: “If negotiations fail, Iran should expand engagement with Eastern nations and Global South countries to demonstrate that this diplomatic shift is not temporary but reflects long-term diplomatic diversification.”
he highlighted that amid external uncertainties, Tehran’s foremost duty is fostering internal unity and converting potential domestic capacity into active strength.
