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NPT Draft Softens Iran and Nuclear‑Sharing Language as Talks Enter Final Stretch

The softened language on Iran and nuclear sharing could prompt Russia, China or Iran to block consensus.

Overview

  • The conference chair circulated a revised outcome draft Wednesday that adds a pledge to pursue a world without nuclear weapons.
  • The new text drops a call for restraint on attacks against Iran’s nuclear sites and instead voices serious concern about strikes on any peaceful nuclear facilities.
  • Language criticizing new nuclear‑sharing arrangements is watered down to simply note related discussions, a shift that reflects US and European preferences.
  • Russia sought to remove references linked to North Korea’s nuclear activities, yet the draft still backs denuclearization of the North.
  • Adoption remains uncertain because the NPT requires unanimity by May 22 and the last two review conferences failed to agree on a final document.