France, Germany, UK Threaten Reimpose Sanctions on Iran

The United Kingdom, France, and Germany, collectively known as the E3 countries, have informed the United Nations that they are prepared to reimpose sanctions on Iran if Tehran fails to reach a nuclear deal by the end of August 2025. This stance was communicated through a joint letter addressed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the UN Security Council, emphasizing the readiness to trigger the snapback mechanism should Iran not seize the opportunity for a diplomatic extension. The E3 countries offered Iran a chance to postpone the resumption of UN Security Council sanctions if it fulfills its legal obligations and certain conditions, following meetings with Iranian representatives in Istanbul. Meanwhile, Iran has expressed willingness to accept certain limitations on its nuclear program in exchange for lifting economic sanctions but maintained that ending uranium enrichment entirely is nonnegotiable, citing its necessity for self-reliance. Iranian officials have reiterated their flexibility on enrichment capacities but stand firm against complete cessation. These developments underscore the ongoing tensions and diplomatic negotiations surrounding Iran's nuclear activities and international sanctions.