London, 28 September (H.S.): The United Nations reimposed sweeping sanctions on Iran at midnight GMT Saturday, a decade after they were lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal, following Tehran’s continued nuclear activities and refusal to fully cooperate with international inspectors. The UK, France, and Germany jointly triggered the “snapback” mechanism, citing Iran’s failure to meet commitments, including denying access to nuclear sites and withholding reports on enriched uranium stockpiles.

In a united statement, the three European nations urged Iran to avoid escalating tensions and reaffirmed that the reinstatement of sanctions is not the end of diplomatic efforts. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the sanctions as unfair, unjust, and illegal, asserting that Iran has no intention of developing nuclear weapons and warning that any attack plans on its nuclear facilities by Israel must cease for negotiations to progress.

The UN sanctions encompass an arms embargo, bans on uranium enrichment and ballistic missile activities, asset freezes, and travel restrictions. Iran responded by recalling its ambassadors from the UK, France, and Germany for consultations and warned of a severe reaction to the sanctions. The reimposition follows unsuccessful talks held alongside the UN General Assembly to delay the snapback, despite last-minute attempts by Russia and China in the Security Council.

The sanctions are expected to exacerbate Iran’s economic challenges amid ongoing energy shortages and international pressures, with the rial plunging to historic lows. Iran continues to maintain that its nuclear program is peaceful but faces increased global scrutiny and heightened geopolitical tensions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar