Hey there! Big news from the UN this week—on Friday, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will vote on reimposing deep economic sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program. Tehran has already called this move “cruel.” 😰
The Backstory: In 2015, Iran signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), agreeing to curb its nuclear work in exchange for lifting sanctions. But Europe’s power trio—Britain, France and Germany—says Iran hasn’t kept its side. They triggered a 30-day “snapback” process to reimpose UN penalties.
Key Dates: The clock started in late August. The UNSC vote on Friday could bring sanctions back as soon as next week. But Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian heads to the UN’s high-level meeting soon—there might still be time for last-minute talks.
Europe’s Pitch: French President Emmanuel Macron told Israeli TV he expects the snapback by month’s end. He said Iran’s latest responses were “not serious.” Europe even offered to pause the snapback for up to six months if Iran:
- opens full access for UN nuclear inspectors
- accounts for its enriched uranium stockpile
- engages in direct talks with the U.S.
Iran Speaks Up: Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi says he’s given a “reasonable and actionable plan.” He praised Iran’s work with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and slammed Europe’s move as “without legal or logical justification.” He urges everyone to stay diplomatic to avoid a crisis.
Why It Matters: Sanctions could hit global oil markets 🌐⚡️ and raise tensions in a region already on edge. For South and Southeast Asia, where energy and trade are vital, the fallout could be felt in fuel prices and supply chains.
We’ll keep an eye on Friday’s vote and let you know what happens next. Stay tuned! 👀
Reference(s):
UNSC votes on reimposing nuclear sanctions that Iran called 'cruel'
cgtn.com
