Iran Faces Return of Strict UN Sanctions via 'Snapback'

Following the activation of the "snapback" mechanism, the situation around Iran is escalating again: the country could face the reinstatement of strict sanctions imposed by six UN Security Council resolutions from 2006-2010.

The restrictions include an arms embargo, a ban on uranium enrichment and reprocessing, limitations on ballistic missiles and technologies, as well as the freezing of assets and an international travel ban for Iranian individuals and legal entities.

In addition, countries will have the right to inspect the cargo of Iranian airlines and maritime transport to check for prohibited goods. France, Britain, and Germany have proposed a limited-time extension of the mechanism's operation to get additional time for negotiations and to attempt to conclude a new agreement. If Iran agrees, the UN Security Council will have to adopt a new resolution.

Meanwhile, Moscow and Beijing have submitted a draft resolution to the Security Council that extends the nuclear deal until April 2026 but contains provisions that could block the reinstatement of sanctions by the "European troika."

It should be recalled that the negotiations between Tehran and the "European troika" on Iran's nuclear programs have reached a deadlock, which led to the topic of activating the "Snapback" mechanism. However, at the same time, messages are coming from Europe that they still see an opportunity for a diplomatic solution.