New york: Iran, Russia, and China have jointly sent a letter to the United Nations, declaring the termination of the nuclear deal with Tehran, effectively ending the Security Council's consideration of the Iranian nuclear issue. The letter was addressed to both the UN secretary-general and the Security Council, marking a significant shift in the diplomatic landscape surrounding Iran's nuclear program.
According to Anadolu Agency, the letter criticized the efforts by the UK, France, and Germany, collectively known as the E3, to trigger the snapback mechanism, which would reimpose UN sanctions on Iran under UN Security Council Resolution 2231. The letter argued that the E3's attempt was 'legally and procedurally flawed,' citing that the European parties had ceased to fulfill their commitments under both the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and Resolution 2231, thereby lacking the standing to invoke its provisions.
The communication emphasized that, in line with operative paragraph 8 of Resolution 2231, all its provisions are considered terminated after October 18, 2025. It stressed that the conclusion of Resolution 2231 signifies the end of the Security Council's engagement with the Iranian nuclear issue and enhances the authority of the Council and the credibility of multilateral diplomacy.
The letter further called on all involved parties to remain committed to a political settlement that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders through diplomatic engagement and dialogue based on mutual respect. It urged against unilateral sanctions, threats of force, or any actions that could escalate tensions.
An earlier statement from the Iranian Foreign Ministry noted that the resolution, which permitted the reimposition of UN sanctions on Tehran, has officially expired in accordance with the predetermined timeline. It stated that the 10-year period defined by Resolution 2231, adopted on July 20, 2015, ended on October 18, and that all related provisions, restrictions, and mechanisms concerning Iran's nuclear program are now terminated.
The E3 had announced the activation of the snapback mechanism on August 28 under the JCPOA, citing alleged violations by Iran of its commitments. This move followed the United States' unilateral withdrawal from the agreement.