The leaders of Germany, Britain and France have defended their decision to activate the so-called“trigger mechanism” against Iran, describing it as a legitimate move to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons, according to a joint statement issued late Friday.

The mechanism, part of the 2015 nuclear accord, allows European powers to reimpose sanctions if Iran breaches its commitments. The three leaders said their decision was aimed at ensuring accountability and maintaining international pressure on Iran's nuclear program.

“The step we have taken is the right one to prevent Iran from advancing toward nuclear weapon capability,” the statement said, reaffirming their commitment to non-proliferation and diplomacy.

In the same statement, the European leaders welcomed the recently agreed Gaza ceasefire and the planned release of hostages, urging all parties to honor their obligations and allow humanitarian aid to continue.

They thanked the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey for their roles in mediating the ceasefire and stressed that humanitarian operations through U.N. agencies must remain uninterrupted.

The three countries also expressed readiness to restart talks with both Iran and the United States to reach a“comprehensive, lasting and verifiable agreement” on Iran's nuclear activities.

Analysts said the coordinated statement reflects renewed Western alignment on Iran following months of stalled negotiations and growing regional instability after the Gaza conflict.

By linking their nuclear policy stance with calls for calm in Gaza, the European leaders signaled a broader diplomatic approach focused on both non-proliferation and regional stability.

Observers said the joint declaration highlights Europe's effort to remain an active diplomatic player amid shifting dynamics between Washington, Tehran, and Middle Eastern mediators.

MENAFN11102025000228011069ID1110181495