Iran Stands Firm: No Negotiations Under Threat or Coercion

In a recent development at the United Nations, Amir-Saeid Iravani, Iran’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative, has condemned the actions of France, Germany, and Britain for initiating the snapback process against Iran. This move has been labeled as “illegal” and “unacceptable,” as it undermines the Dispute Resolution Mechanism (DRM) outlined in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

During a press conference in New York following a UN Security Council meeting, Iravani expressed his concerns regarding the European Troika’s formal submission aimed at reinstating UN sanctions on Iran under Resolution 2231. He emphasized that while Iran remains dedicated to diplomatic efforts, it will not negotiate under threats or coercion.

Here are some key points from Iravani’s statements:

• Condemnation of the Snapback Mechanism: Iravani stated that the invocation of the snapback mechanism by the E3 is an attempt to blackmail Iran and exert political pressure.
• Closed-Door Meeting: He highlighted that the E3’s request for a closed-door meeting aimed to justify their politically motivated actions, which were based on unfounded accusations against Iran.
• Violation of the JCPOA: The ambassador asserted that the actions of the three European countries represent a clear violation of Resolution 2231 and the JCPOA’s DRM.

Iravani further criticized the E3, stating that they lack the legal and moral authority to invoke the snapback mechanism, declaring their actions as fundamentally null and void. He pointed out that the dispute resolution mechanism was specifically designed to prevent abuse by parties that have failed to meet their commitments, referring to the European countries’ non-compliance with the JCPOA.

He also noted that members of the UNSC, including China and Russia, have corroborated Iran’s position that the E3 did not follow the correct procedures in initiating the snapback process. Iravani emphasized that the E3 and the United States were the first to violate the JCPOA, thus undermining their claims of acting in good faith.

In his remarks, Iravani reiterated that Iran has consistently informed the UNSC, the UN Secretary-General, and the European Union about serious non-compliance issues involving the United States and the E3. He highlighted that these violations are well-documented and asserted that Iran’s measures in response have been gradual, proportionate, and legal.

Here are additional insights from Iravani’s address:

1. Historical Context: The ambassador stated that the situation is clear: the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA, and the European countries failed to fulfill their obligations while imposing new sanctions.
2. Commitment to Diplomacy: Iravani emphasized that despite facing aggression, including attacks on Iran’s safeguarded nuclear facilities, Iran has remained committed to diplomatic solutions.
3. Future Cooperation: He mentioned that Iran is ready to cooperate with countries that respect diplomacy, justice, and peace.

In conclusion, Iravani firmly stated that Iran will not negotiate under coercion and will not succumb to pressure tactics meant to impose rather than resolve issues. He reiterated that Iran is committed to peaceful nuclear energy and international engagement while asserting its rights. The ambassador urged the UNSC not to allow itself to be manipulated by those violating Resolution 2231 and the JCPOA.

To provide some historical context, the JCPOA was signed in 2015 between Iran and the five permanent members of the UNSC, along with Germany. However, in 2018, U.S. President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the agreement, and the European signatories failed to meet their commitments. Following a year of patience, Iran began to reduce its commitments in accordance with the JCPOA.

In light of the E3’s recent actions, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement condemning the snapback mechanism, warning that such decisions will significantly undermine Iran’s ongoing cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Iran remains steadfast in its position, insisting that diplomatic resolutions must be sought without coercive measures and that the integrity of the JCPOA and its provisions must be upheld.