Vienna: The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) issued a warning regarding Iran's potential withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), describing such a move as "very regrettable."

According to Anadolu Agency, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed his concerns during a joint news briefing at Austria's Security Cabinet meeting. The meeting was attended by Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler, and Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger. Grossi emphasized that Iran's withdrawal could result in "isolation" and a "serious erosion" of the NPT framework.

Grossi addressed questions about Iran's remaining highly enriched uranium stocks, particularly following the recent conflict with Israel. He identified the situation as a "number one priority" and stressed the importance of returning to the sites to evaluate the situation. Grossi stated, "We have to go back, and going back with inspectors to these places is not an easy thing. So, my idea is to try to engage with them as soon as possible."

The remarks by Grossi followed a decision by the Iranian parliament to suspend cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog. This decision came one day after a US-proposed ceasefire with Israel took effect. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of the parliament, announced through a statement cited by Fars News Agency that the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran would halt its cooperation with the IAEA until the security of nuclear facilities is guaranteed.