Iran’s FM Holds U.S., E3 Responsible for Consequences Snapback Activation

Why it matters: 

Europe’s activation of the snapback mechanism will heighten tensions surrounding the 2015 nuclear agreement, officially known as the JCPOA. The move could potentially lead to the reinstatement of UN sanctions on Iran, which should be ended on 18 October 2025.

Flashback:

After two years of serious negotiations, the JCPOA  was concluded— a landmark achievement in multilateral diplomacy, unanimously endorsed by Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015). Iran fully implemented the deal, as confirmed by the IAEA in 15 consecutive reports. No country’s nuclear program has ever been subjected to such rigorous inspections.

Yet, in May 2018, the United States unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA in clear violation of Resolution 2231 and international law, and began bullying other governments to follow suit. It presented no reason, no justification.

What he's saying:

Araghchi: "The draft resolution voted on 19 September did not meet the requirements of Resolution 2231 and cannot restore terminated sanctions that have already ended. Likewise, the Resolution put forward by the Republic of South Korea, on which the Council President abstained, carries no legitimacy."

"Just as military attacks have failed to reach any of their declared objectives, the so-called snapback mechanism will fail, too. The only solution is dialogue. The JCPOA proves this."

"Iran will never respond to threats or pressure. We respond only to respect." 

"Today’s decision has obliterated whatever remaining trust of the Iranian people in the promises of the West, and particularly the E3."

State of play: 

• With 9 votes against, 4 votes in favor, and 2 abstentions, the resolution failed to be approved to cancel the snapback against Iran on Friday evening. 
   
• China, Russia, Pakistan, and Algeria voted for the delay. France, the U.S., the U.K., Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Denmark, Panama, Somalia, and Greece voted against the delay. Guyana and South Korea abstained.
   
• The UN sanctions will be reimposed on Iran as of September 28. 

Go deeper: 

The failure may lead to a sharp escalation in Iran’s response to Western pressure, particularly following the U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign in June that targeted Iranian scientific and energy infrastructure.