Germany, France, and the United Kingdom announced early Sunday the reactivation of United Nations sanctions on Iran, following the expiration of the so-called “snapback mechanism.” The decision was justified by Tehran’s failure to comply with its nuclear commitments.
In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the three countries urged Iran to refrain from any escalatory actions and to return to full compliance with its legally binding obligations. They stressed that the reimposition of UN sanctions does not mark the end of diplomacy. The statement affirmed that the European Troika will continue working with all parties to achieve a new diplomatic solution that ensures Iran will never acquire nuclear weapons, while emphasizing the need for swift enforcement of the reinstated restrictions. All UN member states were urged to comply with the sanctions.
In response, Tehran summoned its ambassadors in France, Germany, and the UK “for consultations,” according to Iranian state media. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated on Friday that his country has no intention of withdrawing from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
U.S. Position
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed the decision, declaring that the renewed sanctions prove “the world will not bow to Iran’s threats.” He also called on Tehran to agree to direct negotiations with Washington.
Rubio stated that President Donald Trump has been clear that diplomacy remains open and that reaching a new agreement is still the best option for both the Iranian people and the international community. He further urged all nations to move toward the “immediate implementation” of sanctions against Iran.
Background
The European Troika had triggered the snapback mechanism in late August, allowing the restoration of sanctions previously lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal. The UN Security Council approved the step after a joint Russian-Chinese effort to extend the deadline failed late Friday, paving the way for the sanctions’ reactivation on Sunday.
The reinstated measures include an arms embargo and severe economic restrictions, coming ten years after they were lifted as part of the nuclear accord.
