Iran might sign NPT protocol for snap inspections

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran's official news agency says Iran might ratify the additional protocol of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

The IRNA report Thursday quoted Iran's ambassador to Moscow, Reza Sajjadi. He said it could be part of a Russian framework under which Iran would stop expansion of its nuclear program if the West halts further sanctions.

Sajjadi, who has no direct role in Iran's nuclear program, did not elaborate.

The additional protocol allows U.N. inspectors to make snap visits to nuclear sites.

The West suspects Iran is aiming for production of nuclear weapons. Iran says its nuclear program is peaceful.

The U.N. has imposed several rounds of economic sanctions on Iran.