Initiated move to impose sanctions on Iran by European countries
The snapback mechanism, a key instrument of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), is once again in the spotlight. This process, initiated by Germany, France, and the United Kingdom on 28 August 2025, could potentially lead to the reinstatement of all UN sanctions against Iran.
The snapback mechanism was designed to allow the signatories, such as Germany, France, and the UK, to re-activate earlier UN sanctions in the event of serious Iranian breaches. Under the JCPOA, Iran had committed to curbing its nuclear program and allowing international inspections.
However, the Europeans accuse Iran of persistent violations of the nuclear agreement. These include the enrichment of uranium to almost weapons-grade levels of up to 60 per cent, and the lack of transparency in Iran's cooperation with IAEA inspections.
The snapback mechanism is valid for only 10 years and will lapse on 18 October 2025 if it has not been invoked by then. If activated, it could bypass the usual UN Security Council veto, ensuring that previously suspended sanctions can be restored automatically unless the Security Council passes a resolution (which can be vetoed by the triggering state) to continue sanctions relief.
It's worth noting that Russia and China cannot block the activation of the snapback mechanism with a veto. This is a significant factor, given the historical veto power these countries have wielded in the UN Security Council.
However, the success of the snapback mechanism depends on Iran's willingness to return to constructive negotiations. In recent talks in July and August, Iran has shown no sufficient willingness to do so.
The snapback mechanism was implemented in the context of the JCPOA, under which international sanctions that had severely burdened Iran's economy were eased. However, in 2018, US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA and re-imposed tough punitive measures.
As the clock ticks towards 18 October 2025, the international community watches with bated breath to see if the snapback mechanism will be activated and what consequences this may have for Iran's nuclear program and the global nuclear non-proliferation efforts.
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