Iran Condemns European Attempt to Restore UN Sanctions Through Snapback Mechanism

Iran has strongly reacted to the European attempt to restore UN sanctions under the so-called snapback mechanism, calling it an "unlawful, unjustified, and provocative act" that undermines ongoing diplomatic processes. The move comes after the UN Security Council voted against a draft resolution that would have permanently lifted sanctions linked to Iran's nuclear program. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has emphasized that the action by the European countries (Britain, France, and Germany) amounts to "a destructive and dual violation" of the UN Charter and the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The ministry has also highlighted that the European action weakens diplomacy and will have serious consequences.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UN Security Council has voted against a draft resolution to permanently lift sanctions linked to Iran's nuclear program, with nine members opposing the measure.
  • The European countries (Britain, France, and Germany) have attempted to restore UN sanctions through the snapback mechanism, which Iran considers unlawful and unjustified.
  • Iran's Foreign Ministry has stressed that the European action undermines ongoing diplomatic processes and will have serious consequences.
  • Tehran has accused the E3 of misrepresenting facts, making unfounded allegations, and pressuring UN Security Council members to pass the resolution.
  • Iran has emphasized that its nuclear program is peaceful and aims to pursue scientific and technological progress.
  • Iran has warned that it will defend its rights, including through diplomacy, and reserves the right to respond to any unlawful measures.
  • The Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has criticized the "politicized atmosphere" in the IAEA Board of Governors' sessions and has stressed that Iran's cooperation with the agency remains "purely technical and within the framework of international regulations."

Statistics:

  • 9 members opposed the UN Security Council's draft resolution to permanently lift sanctions linked to Iran's nuclear program on Friday.
  • 4 members (Russia, China, Pakistan, and Algeria) backed the resolution, while 2 abstained.
  • The UN sanctions against Iran will be re-imposed by September 28 if no agreement is reached.
  • 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was signed with the E3 (Britain, France, and Germany).
  • 2018: The United States withdrew from the JCPOA, leading to a reduction in Iran's nuclear commitments.

Sources:

  • ISNA (Iranian Students' News Agency) - "Iran Condemns European Attempt to Restore UN Sanctions Through Snapback Mechanism"
  • IRNA (Islamic Republic News Agency) - "Araghchi Criticizes IAEA Board of Governors' Sessions"