Why it matters:
Experts have warned that renewed sanctions on Iran could trigger far-reaching consequences, not only for Iran’s economy, but also for regional trade, security, and energy stability, with effects likely to extend well beyond the region.
The big picture:
The discussion comes amid European efforts to invoke the JCPOA “snapback” mechanism, which could potentially reinstate UN sanctions against Iran. Participants noted that such a move risks undermining diplomacy and could destabilize already fragile regional relations.
What they are saying:
Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, stated: “In 2015, negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the P5+1 countries led to a nuclear agreement, backed by UN Security Council Resolution 2231. In 2018, the unilateral withdrawal of the U.S. from the JCPOA and the violation of the commitments of European countries forced Iran to initiate compensatory measures in accordance with the JCPOA, and these measures cannot be the basis for activating the snapback mechanism of European countries.”
He added that the European move to refer the matter to the UN Security Council is “unacceptable,” saying that these countries “failed to fulfill their commitments following the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA.” Moghadam further emphasized that “Russia and China consider both the announcement and the snapback process null and void.”
Khalid Mahmood, Former Pakistani Envoy to Iran and Chairman of the Institute of Strategic Studies, stated: “Sanctions will not effect the region but beyond the region, because it is not just an issue of nuclear but also will effect the maritime security, impact on energy prices and the relationship among the members of the region so it was not a wise decision in my view.”
Johar Saleem, Former Ambassador and President of the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), stated: “Sanctions will drive up energy costs and significantly reduce bilateral trade between Iran and Pakistan. Under such restrictions, trade is likely to decline sharply. Moreover, this could spark conflict that threatens regional peace and stability. These sanctions carry multifaceted consequences, not only for this region, but beyond.”
Key points:
- Venue: Institute of Regional Studies, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Participants: Amb. Johar Saleem (IRS President), Khalid Mahmood (Chairman, Institute of Strategic Studies), Prof. Tohid Asadi (University of Tehran, virtual), and Reza Amiri Moghadam (Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan)
- Moderator: Syed Faraz Naqvi, Head of Iran Desk, IRS
- Focus: Impact of European “snapback” sanctions under JCPOA
- Consensus: Sanctions risk economic disruption and regional instability
Go deeper:
Iran, Pakistan Eye Deeper Cooperation in Security and Regional Stability
M.Majdi - Hossein Vaez
