Germany has signaled that the European Troika — comprised of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom — may reinstate United Nations sanctions on Iran if no agreement is reached on the country’s nuclear program by the end of summer.
Speaking to Reuters on Wednesday, a German Foreign Ministry spokesperson stressed the urgency of finding a verifiable and lasting diplomatic solution that reflects the international community’s security interests.
“If such a solution is not reached this summer, the option of triggering the snapback mechanism to reimpose sanctions remains on the table,” the spokesperson warned.
Snapback Sanctions Mechanism Looms
The snapback mechanism would automatically reinstate all U.N. sanctions previously lifted under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the landmark nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.
The warning from Germany comes amid stalled negotiations and growing concerns over Iran’s expanding nuclear activities. European officials have expressed frustration over the lack of progress and are increasingly considering punitive measures as a last resort.
This latest statement marks a firm stance from the European Troika, underscoring their readiness to take diplomatic and economic action if Iran fails to return to compliance.