The United Nations is on the verge of re-imposing significant economic and military sanctions on Iran, a decade after they were initially lifted following a landmark international agreement regarding its nuclear program. This decision comes after a critical period where Iran was accused of failing to uphold its end of the bargain.
The UK, France, and Germany formally notified the UN Security Council last month, formally accusing Iran of not fulfilling its obligations. This formal accusation initiated a 30-day period for diplomatic solutions to be explored, aiming to prevent the return of these punitive measures.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has strongly denounced the impending sanctions, labeling them as “unfair, unjust, and illegal.” Despite efforts by China and Russia to propose a six-month delay, the resolution to postpone the sanctions garnered only four votes in the 15-member council, falling short of adoption.
Iran’s nuclear activities escalated after the US withdrew from the deal in 2016. Following recent escalations, including military actions against Iranian nuclear and military sites, diplomatic efforts to secure a new nuclear deal have stalled. President Pezeshkian, while addressing the UN, reiterated Iran’s commitment to the Non-Proliferation Treaty and its peaceful nuclear intentions, but also highlighted the need for assurances against military strikes to normalize its nuclear enrichment program.
The reimposed sanctions are expected to encompass a broad range of measures, including:
- An arms embargo
- A ban on uranium enrichment
- Restrictions on activities related to ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons
- Asset freezes and travel bans for designated Iranian individuals and entities
- Authorization for international inspection of Iranian cargo ships and airlines.
These sanctions will likely add further strain to an already tense geopolitical climate, with European sanctions expected to follow the UN’s action next week.