European Nations Re-impose UN Sanctions on Iran

(MENAFN) France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have reinstated United Nations sanctions on Iran, arguing that Tehran has violated its obligations to limit its nuclear activity.

Iranian officials denounced the action as unlawful, emphasizing that "no state is obligated to adhere to the sanctions."

In a collective announcement issued on Sunday, the three European countries revealed they had activated the sanctions "snapback" mechanism following the lapse of a 30-day period aimed at reducing tensions.

They pointed to Iran’s refusal to provide access to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and alleged discrepancies in accounting for highly enriched uranium.

"Regrettably, Iran did not take the necessary actions to address our concerns," the E3 stated, calling on all UN member states to enforce the renewed sanctions.

They also highlighted that this decision "is not the end of diplomacy," signaling a continued interest in negotiations.

The statement continued, "We urge Iran to refrain from any escalatory action and to return to compliance with its legally binding safeguards obligations."

The reimposed sanctions reinstate a range of measures, including a ban on conventional weapons, limitations linked to ballistic missiles, travel restrictions, and asset freezes targeting specific individuals.

Additionally, the sanctions reintroduce controls on trade involving sensitive nuclear technology—restrictions that had originally been lifted under the 2015 nuclear accord.

Despite objections from China and Russia, the snapback mechanism proceeded, as it is designed to be immune to veto powers.

Earlier this month, both nations had attempted to push a UN proposal for a six-month extension of sanctions relief for Iran but did not gather enough votes to move it forward.

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