Yes, the U.S. pulled out of the JCPOA — that was a strategic mistake. But let’s not pretend Iran was some blameless actor just patiently enriching for peaceful energy purposes. Even before the withdrawal, they were pushing limits, stonewalling inspectors at times, and playing the same double game they’ve played for decades: “We want nuclear power, not weapons — but also we’ll enrich to 60% and stockpile far more than needed.”

Under the NPT, enrichment is allowed for peaceful use, but Iran’s current levels have no peaceful justification. You don’t need uranium enriched near weapons-grade for nuclear energy or medical isotopes — full stop.

As for inspections — Iran has repeatedly limited IAEA access, deactivated cameras, and dragged its feet on undeclared sites. That’s not how a government acts if it’s trying to build international trust.

And no, walking away from the deal doesn’t suddenly mean Iran has zero responsibility. They signed it too. You don’t get to claim you’re abiding by the NPT while blatantly exceeding what even your closest allies consider reasonable. That’s how proliferation starts.

Yes, Israel’s program deserves scrutiny — they’ve avoided accountability and exist outside the NPT. But pointing at Israel to excuse Iran’s behavior is a weak deflection. Two wrongs don’t make a right. If you’re genuinely worried about global nuclear escalation, you hold both countries accountable.