UK, France and Germany Reimpose UN Sanctions on Iran Over Nuclear Concerns

Britain, France and Germany have formally triggered the United Nations’ “snapback” sanctions process against Iran, citing Tehran’s continued breaches of the 2015 nuclear agreement. The move reinstates a 30-day timeline under which all previously lifted UN restrictions could automatically return unless Iran takes corrective steps.

The mechanism, written into the nuclear accord and enshrined in UN Security Council Resolution 2231, was designed to prevent vetoes from blocking action if Iran violated commitments. The European powers stressed that their decision was not meant to end diplomacy, but to push Iran toward renewed negotiations.

In a joint letter to the UN, the E3 accused Iran of stockpiling enriched uranium far beyond permitted levels and of blocking the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from carrying out full inspections. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot urged Tehran to re-engage constructively, saying the snapback was intended as leverage, not a final break.

Iran strongly rejected the move, calling it “illegal and politically driven.” Officials warned of possible retaliation, including curbing cooperation with the IAEA. The announcement comes as Iran’s economy faces mounting strain, with its currency at record lows and inflation rising sharply. Analysts caution that renewed sanctions on arms sales, asset freezes, and trade could deal a serious blow.

Amid fears of reprisals, Germany has advised its nationals to leave Iran immediately. Its embassy in Tehran is operating with limited capacity.

While European officials continue to emphasize dialogue, prospects appear uncertain. Iran has so far dismissed restrictions on its nuclear activities, and observers warn that the next 30 days may determine whether diplomacy survives or tensions escalate into a deeper crisis.