Russia and China criticize European countries for imposing ‘snapback’ sanctions on Iran.

In a significant development, Russia and China have voiced strong opposition to a recent initiative by Britain, Germany, and France to reactivate United Nations sanctions on Iran regarding its nuclear program. This decision, made by the three European nations collectively known as the E3, involves the activation of a “snapback mechanism.” This mechanism has been triggered based on allegations that Iran has deviated from the terms of the 2015 nuclear agreement, designed to curtail the country’s potential development of nuclear weapons in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

The activation of this mechanism initiates a 30-day window during which the E3 must adopt a new UN resolution to either extend sanctions relief or reapply sanctions. In a statement released on Friday, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed serious disapproval, attributing the current situation to the United States and its European allies’ actions that have led to the unraveling of the 2015 deal.

China echoed this sentiment, advising that the E3’s decision was “not constructive.” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized the critical state of the Iranian nuclear issue, cautioning that the reimplementation of sanctions would hinder diplomatic efforts to reach a resolution.

In response to the E3’s actions, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi characterized the move as “unjustified” and without legal foundation. He indicated that the Islamic Republic would counter this “unlawful and unwarranted measure” appropriately. Iran’s Foreign Ministry further warned that these actions could severely complicate its cooperative relationship with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Moreover, the Iranian parliament is reportedly considering legislation that would withdraw the country from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as a consequence of the E3’s initiative. This treaty has long been a key element in the international framework for preventing the spread of nuclear weapons.

Iran maintains that its nuclear program is focused on energy production rather than weaponization, although concerns from Western nations persist regarding the potential development of atomic weapons. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, recognizing its implications for regional and global security.

This ongoing development underscores the complexities of international diplomacy, particularly in balancing national interests with collaborative efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability.

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