Why it matters:
The European declaration marks the most serious escalation in the nuclear standoff since the US withdrawal from the 2015 deal. Iran argues the three states lack both the legal and moral authority to invoke the “snapback” mechanism, given their own non-compliance with the nuclear agreement.
The big picture:
The “snapback” mechanism in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) allows any participant to reimpose UN sanctions if Iran is deemed in breach.
Tehran says the E3 failed to follow the JCPOA’s dispute resolution process and that their actions undermine diplomacy at a time when Iran’s nuclear facilities were recently damaged in the Israeli-American attacks.
Russia and China have echoed Iran’s position, warning against "a misuse of the Security Council’s authority."
What Iran is saying:
The E3’s move is “invalid and void of any legal effect”.
“The Europeans are in no position to present themselves as good-faith parties while they have long violated their obligations and even imposed new sanctions on Iran.”
The decision “rewards the violator and punishes the victim” — pointing to the US withdrawal in 2018 and the EU’s failure to mitigate sanctions.
Tehran warned the action would seriously weaken its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and vowed an “appropriate response”.
Key points:
Iran insists its nuclear steps have been gradual, proportional, and consistent with its rights under the JCPOA.
Tehran said the move undermines the Security Council’s credibility and risks damaging international peace and security.
Go deeper:
The European trio told the UN they have launched the snapback process to restore UN sanctions, though Reuters reported they still seek a “diplomatic solution” within the 30-day consultation window.
Iran said it will circulate its formal response as an official Security Council document, urging member states to “decisively reject” the E3 initiative.
Mojtaba Darabi
