ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - European powers on Wednesday called on Iran to cooperate in talks over its nuclear program, stressing that Tehran cannot have a nuclear weapon and that imposing the UN-mandated “snapback” mechanism is still on the table.
“Regarding the Iranian nuclear program, a sustainable and verifiable diplomatic solution that addresses the security interests of the international community is essential. If such a solution is not achieved by the end of the summer, the snapback mechanism will remain an option for the E3,” a German Federal Foreign Office spokesperson told Rudaw.
The snapback mechanism is a powerful diplomatic tool embedded in the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers - formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) - which allows for the automatic reimposition of UN Security Council sanctions on Iran if it violates its nuclear commitments.
The United Kingdom also called on Iran to provide “credible assurances” to the international community and to resume negotiations with the United States and the UN’s nuclear watchdog.
“We remain committed along with the US and partners, to finding a diplomatic agreement to address Iran’s nuclear programme and have made clear that we will consider all options, including through triggering snapback or through the extension of the snapback deadline,” the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office told Rudaw.
Both Berlin and London stressed that Tehran cannot possess a nuclear weapon.
Britain, France, and Germany - collectively known as the E3 - sent a joint letter to the UN on Wednesday, warning that they are ready to activate the snapback mechanism.