Russia Challenges E3’s Ability to Legally Reinstate Sanctions on Iran: Exclusive Insights

In a recent statement, Russia has firmly asserted that Britain, France, and Germany, collectively known as the E3, lack the authority to “snap back” sanctions on Iran. This position stems from their failure to fulfill the stipulations of U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231, which underpins the currently stalled nuclear agreement with Tehran.

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, emphasized the following points during an interview with IRNA in Moscow:

• The “snapback” mechanism is intended for situations where Iran is the initial violator of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
• The United States unilaterally exited the JCPOA in 2018 and reinstated severe economic sanctions against Iran.
• The E3 has indicated their readiness to reimpose international sanctions that were lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal.
• U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited his “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran.

Zakharova pointed out that the unilateral actions of the U.S. have caused a “fundamental change” in the overall situation, impacting the use of the snapback mechanism. She stated, “Triggering that mechanism without addressing Washington’s illegal actions is unacceptable.”

She further criticized the E3 countries, saying, “The pattern of U.S. bad behavior has extended to the European countries participating in the JCPOA negotiations.” According to her, these nations have taken actions that undermine U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231 and have hesitated to meet their obligations regarding the removal of unilateral illegal sanctions against Iran.

It’s important to note that Resolution 2231 will expire in October 2025, which means the snapback mechanism, designed for the swift reinstatement of U.N. sanctions if Iran is found non-compliant, will also cease to exist. Zakharova asserted, “Given the failure of European countries to implement the Security Council’s requirements, they, like the American side, do not have the right to raise the issue of revenge against Iran” by invoking the snapback option.

Additionally, as part of their strategy to increase pressure on Iran, the E3 moved forward with a resolution at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in June, condemning Iran for what they described as a lack of cooperation with the U.N. nuclear watchdog amid its expanded nuclear activities.