France, the U.K., and Germany expressed readiness to reinstate full U.N. sanctions against Iran if the country does not return to nuclear negotiations.
U.N. Sanctions at Stake
France, the U.K., and Germany, known as the E3, sent a joint letter to the U.N. Security Council and Secretary-General António Guterres warning of reinstating sanctions if Iran does not return to talks by the end of August. The letter mentions the intention to activate the 'snapback' mechanism, allowing for all sanctions to be re-imposed without Security Council approval.
Uranium Enrichment Issues
Iran claims it is open to discussions with Washington, but it has not agreed to halt uranium enrichment. In recent years, the enrichment program has significantly accelerated. The International Atomic Energy Agency reports that Iran is enriching uranium to 60% purity, which is dangerously close to weapons-grade levels. Tehran insists that the enrichment is solely for energy production.
Economic Consequences for Iran
Since the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018, Iran's economy has suffered greatly. Sanctions have severely impacted its oil exports and financial systems, yet Tehran continues to affirm its commitment to its nuclear program.
Thus, pressure from European countries could lead to a new wave of sanctions against Iran if the country does not take steps to resume negotiations on its nuclear program.
