Iran threatens retaliation against UN sanctions over nuclear deal

Iran has issued a stern warning regarding the potential imposition of snapback sanctions by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as it nears a critical deadline in October. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, stated that any action to invoke snapback sanctions lacks both legal and political foundations and would lead to an appropriate response from Iran. This warning comes in the context of a looming October deadline that is tied to the anniversary of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), an agreement aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear capabilities. The JCPOA allows any signatory member to initiate snapback sanctions if Iran is found in violation of the agreement's terms. However, the capacity of the U.S. to activate such sanctions has been complicated by its withdrawal from the agreement in 2018, during President Donald Trump's first term. Experts assert that the snapback mechanism could potentially be employed in a process expected to take about six weeks, although its activation is viewed as a risky proposition given the geopolitical landscape. Recent discussions among nations hint at a possible move toward invoking these sanctions, with reports suggesting that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz might act on this as soon as Tuesday. However, uncertainty remains regarding the efficacy of these measures and whether they will have an impact on Iran's nuclear ambitions. Additionally, security experts warn that time is running out to implement the sanctions effectively. Despite the assessment that Iran's nuclear program has been delayed, the nation has shown no sign of relinquishing its ambitions or cooperating with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In fact, Iran has ceased cooperation with the IAEA following airstrikes against its nuclear facilities last month. The tension surrounding the potential snapback sanctions raises significant concerns about the future direction of Iran's nuclear program and its implications for regional stability.