Europe Threatens Iran With Snapback Sanctions as Nuclear Talks Reach Crisis Point

European powers—Britain, France, and Germany—have warned Iran that they will reimpose tough United Nations sanctions by the end of August if no progress is made on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal.

In response, Iran has agreed to urgent talks in Istanbul but is also seeking support from Russia and China to counter the threat of renewed sanctions. Iranian officials have threatened to escalate their nuclear program and even withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty if sanctions are reinstated. The standoff comes amid accusations from both sides of failing to uphold commitments under the original agreement.

The next few weeks are seen as critical, with the risk of a major diplomatic breakdown and increased regional tensions.