Why it matters:
Iranian Foreign Minister has issued a sharp rebuke to Britain, France, and Germany (the E3) over their decision to trigger the UN “snapback” sanctions mechanism. His op-ed in The Guardian warns that the move undermines diplomacy and risks sidelining Europe from future negotiations.
The big picture:
Araghchi argues that the E3’s reactivation of sanctions lacks legal basis and ignores the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA). He accuses the E3 of enabling Washington’s excesses and failing to uphold their own commitments, including trade normalization and sanction relief.
What he’s saying:
“Europe is today enabling the excesses of Washington.”
“The E3’s gambit will not achieve the result they seek. It will only further sideline them.”
“Iran remains open to diplomacy… ready to forge a realistic and lasting bargain that entails ironclad oversight and curbs on enrichment in exchange for the termination of sanctions.”
On military strikes and diplomacy:
Araghchi condemned European leaders for allegedly supporting U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, calling such actions “lawless” and incompatible with genuine diplomatic engagement. He warned that failure to seize the current diplomatic window could lead to broader regional instability.
Between the lines:
The op-ed reflects Iran’s frustration with what it sees as European inconsistency—publicly supporting diplomacy while backing military pressure. Araghchi also criticized Germany’s chancellor for “cheerleading” illegal strikes and suggested that Europe’s credibility is at stake.
What’s next:
Araghchi urged the E3 to “pull back” and engage in honest dialogue. He warned that continued escalation could isolate Europe from future negotiations and deepen geopolitical divides. Iran, he said, remains willing to negotiate—if diplomacy is given the time and space to succeed.
Hossein Amiri - Mahboubeh Habibi
