Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)

The NPT, which entered into force in 1970, is the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. It has three pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament, and the right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. Iran is a signatory to the NPT and claims its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes. However, in June 2025, Iran's parliament began drafting legislation to withdraw from the NPT amid the Israel-Iran conflict, which would have severe implications for the non-proliferation regime. Five states are recognised as nuclear-weapon states under the NPT: the US, Russia, UK, France, and China.