Reza Sepahvand: NPT Withdrawal or Hormuz Closure Possible if Diplomacy Fails

According to Saed News quoting Khabar Online, Reza Sepahvand stated in an interview regarding the activation of the “snapback” mechanism that it was originally intended for Iran and European countries to mutually fulfill their commitments. However, since the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA and the planned INSTEX credit line for Iran’s money transfers was never implemented, activating the snapback mechanism is illegal. Russia has also emphasized the illegality of such activation in a letter to the United Nations.

He added that Iran has tools to respond to this potential action but will not rush to use them, opting first for diplomacy. After the European countries’ letter, Iran wrote to the United Nations and stated that it will not remain passive if the snapback is activated. Among the tools available is withdrawal from the NPT, but this step will not be taken hastily.

Sepahvand emphasized that any decision regarding leaving the NPT or closing the Strait of Hormuz requires careful expert evaluation and a system-wide consensus.

He also stressed the priority of diplomacy, noting that Iran must continue diplomatic efforts to prevent the snapback from being activated. Competent Iranian diplomats are capable of managing these efforts. Thus, actions such as leaving the NPT or closing the Strait of Hormuz are reserved for a scenario where no diplomatic solution remains.

Sepahvand noted that other parties seek concessions from Iran through various methods. They believe, incorrectly, that the U.S. bombing has destroyed Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Therefore, there should be no pretext for additional sanctions or placing Iran under Chapter VII. The nuclear issue should have been “destroyed” according to Trump’s statement on Iran’s nuclear facilities.

He further emphasized that claims about Iran lacking regional influence are inaccurate. Consequently, the excuses used in the past for sanctions and attacks on Iran no longer apply unless they pursue Iran’s missile program, where Iran will not retreat in defense. If the snapback mechanism is insisted upon, Iran will use its available capabilities.