United Nations sanctions were reimposed on Iran by 'snapback' mechanism on Saturday over accusations that Tehran violated the 2015 nuclear deal with world
powers. Britain, France, and Germany, known as the E3, triggered a “snapback” process 30 days ago, claiming Iran failed to comply with the agreement designed to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons, as per AP report. Iran denies pursuing nuclear arms.
Iran Warns of Harsh Response
Tehran has warned that the sanctions will be met with a strong response. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, however, tried to downplay the situation, saying, “It is not like the sky is falling.”
Iran is recalling its ambassadors to Britain, France, and Germany for consultations.
Economic Impact Already Felt
Iran’s economy is already suffering from sanctions reinstated by the US in 2018 after US President Donald Trump withdrew from the deal.
The country’s currency, the rial, fell to a record low of 1,123,000 per US dollar on Saturday amid fears of new restrictions.
The renewed UN sanctions will include an arms embargo, a ban on uranium enrichment and reprocessing, restrictions on ballistic missile activities, travel bans for dozens of Iranian individuals, and asset freezes.
Countries worldwide are authorized to seize any items banned under these sanctions. Iran will also be prohibited from engaging in commercial activities involving nuclear materials and technology in other nations.
Diplomatic Efforts Falter
European powers had offered to delay the sanctions for up to six months to allow space for negotiations if Iran allowed UN nuclear inspectors access and addressed concerns about its enriched uranium.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi accused the E3 of failing to reciprocate Iran’s proposals to keep diplomacy open.
Regional Tensions Rise
The reimposition of sanctions comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, just months after Israel and the US struck Iranian nuclear sites.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov criticized the sanctions as “unlawful” and warned the UN Secretary-General against recognizing them.
