Why it matters:
The dispute centers on the legal and diplomatic validity of enforcing sanctions after the U.S. withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal. The ongoing divisions between Russia and European powers could have significant implications for the future of the 2015 agreement.
What they're saying:
The Russian representative stated, "Countries that signed the Iran nuclear deal do not have the right to reimpose UN sanctions on Iran," underscoring Russia's position against European efforts to reinstate punitive measures.
The British representative to the UN argued that "Resolution 2231 allows for the reimposition of sanctions on Iran," pointing to the framework within the UN Security Council resolution.
Similarly, the French representative supported the move, asserting that today's session "allows for the proper implementation of the Iran nuclear deal and Resolution 2231."
The French Ambassador also calls on Iran to allow International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors to operate in the field, adding that the IAEA is currently unable to determine the fate of Iran’s 60% enriched uranium.
"We are committed to working towards a diplomatic solution to Iran's nuclear program," France's UN envoy said.
Go deeper:
Iran: E3 Shows They Don't Accept IAEA
Hossein Amiri - ahmad shirzadian
