Why it matters:
This move could reimpose all UN sanctions lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal, effectively killing the JCPOA and escalating tensions amid already fragile diplomatic efforts to salvage the agreement.
The big picture:
The European Troika's decision reflects a lack of compromise in negotiations. However, the action risks further isolating Europe from other JCPOA participants like Russia and China, who oppose snapback, and could provoke a severe Iranian response.
What the European Troika is saying:
Announcing their decision to activate the snapback mechanism, they said: "We hope Iran will act by the end of September to provide commitments regarding its nuclear program that would persuade us to postpone specific measures."
Key points:
- Snapback mechanism activated under UN Resolution 2231
- Europeans claim Geneva talks yielded "insufficient tangible commitments" from Iran
- 30-day process initiated before mid-October deadline
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio notified Wednesday
- Iran warns of "severe" response to sanctions restoration
Go deeper:
Iran maintains that Europe, by failing to fulfill its own economic commitments and acquiescing to US violations, has lost the legal and moral authority to trigger snapback. This action may ultimately push Iran toward retaliatory measures.
Russia Warns E3 Over ‘Snapback’ Threat, Says Europe Has No Exit Strategy
M.Majdi - Mojtaba Darabi
