E3 Lacks Legal and Moral Authority to Activate Snapback Mechanism

In a significant development regarding Iran’s nuclear program, Russia’s Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov, shared critical insights in an exclusive interview with Press TV. His remarks were particularly focused on the upcoming IAEA Board of Governors meeting and the implications of recent snapback sanctions initiated by the E3 countries. This situation underscores the complexities of international diplomacy concerning nuclear agreements.

Ulyanov emphasized that the initiation of the snapback mechanism by three European states—France, Germany, and the United Kingdom—was not a mere coincidence. He stated, “It was not occasional that the snapback mechanism was launched by three European states who formally still remain participants in the JCPOA. They don’t have a legal, procedural, or even moral right to do that because they are violators.”

He elaborated on the violations committed by the E3 and the United States, asserting that their actions have undermined the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) significantly. Ulyanov cited the International Court of Justice’s 1971 legal opinion, which indicates that a party that breaches an agreement forfeits its right to blame another party for similar violations. He stated, “They violated the JCPOA very significantly as well as Resolution 2231.”

• Politicization of IAEA Activities: Ulyanov pointed out that the European trio and the U.S. have been instrumental in politicizing the IAEA’s operations. He noted a specific instance where discussions between the IAEA Secretariat and Iran were progressing positively, only to be disrupted by the E3’s sudden trigger of the snapback mechanism.
• Repeated Disruptions: He described the behavior of European nations towards Iran’s nuclear dossier as “irrational and inexplicable.” Ulyanov stated, “The Europeans time and again create problems in the sphere that relates to the nuclear dossier of Iran. It’s very irrational. It’s very strange.”

According to Ulyanov, the dialogue within the IAEA’s Board of Governors has shifted from technical discussions to a more politicized environment, particularly concerning Iran. He also highlighted the absence of U.S. involvement in the snapback process, noting that President Trump had withdrawn from the JCPOA and President Biden had not sought to rejoin the agreement.

Furthermore, Ulyanov reiterated that the E3 countries lack the “legal, procedural, or even moral right” to invoke the snapback mechanism, as they themselves are in violation of the agreement. He stated, “They had significantly violated the JCPOA as well as Resolution 2231.”

He raised concerns regarding the West’s exit strategy in light of the snapback mechanism and the anticipated re-imposition of all UN Security Council sanctions by the end of September. Ulyanov emphasized Russia’s commitment to pursuing diplomatic solutions and fostering collective discussions involving all JCPOA participants.

Moreover, Ulyanov revealed that Russia and China have collaborated on a draft resolution aimed at extending Resolution 2231 and the JCPOA for an additional six months. This initiative is designed to allow more time for diplomatic efforts, thereby avoiding the necessity of snapback sanctions.

He also expressed apprehension about the potential implications of Iran’s withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), highlighting that Iran is one of the most inspected nations globally. Ulyanov noted, “The extensive inspections carried out in the country” serve as a testament to its compliance with international regulations.

Ulyanov concurred with the viewpoint that the nuclear issue has increasingly become a geopolitical tool aimed at containing Iran, Russia, and China. He remarked on the growing politicization and confrontational dynamics within international organizations such as the UN and IAEA, contrasting this with previous years characterized by cooperation and consensus.

In his closing remarks, Ulyanov expressed regret over the deterioration of the ‘Vienna spirit’ in international organizations, attributing this shift to rising geopolitical tensions. He underscored Russia’s ongoing efforts to counterbalance Western dominance in multilateral forums, affirming the need for unity and collaboration among all parties involved.

This interview sheds light on the intricate dynamics surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and the broader geopolitical landscape, illustrating the challenges of achieving consensus in a divided international community.

As discussions continue, the upcoming IAEA Board of Governors meeting is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of diplomatic relations concerning Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Source: MNA/Press TV