Next 30 days critical for a diplomatic solution to Iran nuclear dispute, say European powers

BERLIN

European powers urged Iran to take steps within the next 30 days toward a diplomatic solution to the nuclear dispute, warning that failure to do so would result in the reimposition of major UN sanctions.

Foreign ministers from the UK, France, and Germany published a joint op-ed in Politico Thursday night justifying their decision to trigger the snapback mechanism – which allows sanctions to be reimposed quickly if Iran is found in violation of the deal – arguing that Iran's unresponsiveness in recent weeks made this action necessary.

"We have spoken to Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi regularly, including in Geneva this June, during the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran. In July, we spoke to Minister Araghchi, offering Iran a snapback extension," said the UK’s David Lammy, France’s Jean Noel Barrot, and Germany’s Johann Wadephul.

They said the conditions for the extension were “fair and realistic” and included the resumption of negotiations on a comprehensive deal, inspections of all nuclear facilities and materials, and measures to address Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile.

“Unfortunately, Iran has not met these conditions, and the minimal steps it took fell well short of our requirements. This brings us to the action we have taken this week,” the ministers added.

They emphasized that the next month will be decisive.

"Following the triggering of the snapback process, there are now 30 days to find a diplomatic solution on the Iran nuclear issue before snapback takes effect, and six previously lifted UN Security Council resolutions come back into force," the ministers said.

"There remains a clear diplomatic path forward, if Iran chooses to take it … The onus is now on Iran to refrain from further escalation, re-engage seriously, and choose a path of constructive diplomacy."

The UK, France, and Germany, known as the E3, are signatories to the 2015 nuclear agreement, which placed limits on Iran’s nuclear activities.

Under the pact, endorsed by the UN Security Council, Iran agreed to curb its uranium enrichment and allow international inspectors to verify that its nuclear program was only for peaceful purposes.

In return, Iran received relief from economic sanctions – restrictions that European powers warn could soon be restored.