The UK, alongside France and Germany (E3), announces plans to adopt UN sanctions on Iran into national law, addressing concerns of nuclear program advancements
The E3 countries, including the UK, France, and Germany, have unveiled their intent to convert UN sanctions imposed on Iran into their respective domestic legal frameworks.
This decision addresses Iran’s breach of its commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) and its unjustified nuclear program expansion.
UK Adopts UN Sanctions on Iran into national law
In addition to incorporating UN sanctions into domestic law, the E3 members pledge to uphold existing EU and UK sanctions beyond the approaching October deadline, as stipulated in the JCPoA. These sanctions encompass measures against individuals and entities involved in Iran’s missile and nuclear programs, among others.
Legitimate response to Iranian violations
A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson emphasised that the E3’s actions constitute a “legitimate and proportionate” response to Iran’s continual breaches of its JCPoA commitments and its nuclear program’s growth, which lacks credible civilian justification. The UK and its E3 partners are committed to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons while maintaining diplomatic engagement.
The United Kingdom officially commits to enacting UN sanctions on Iran into its domestic legislation. These sanctions were initially set to be lifted on October 18th under the JCPoA. They include penalties targeting individuals and entities linked to Iran’s missile and nuclear programs.
Efforts to defuse Nuclear tensions
Despite the E3’s commitment to diplomacy, Iran’s ongoing non-compliance with the JCPoA and nuclear escalation necessitated adopting these measures.
The E3 and the UK had presented viable proposals to Iran in March and August the previous year, which were declined. The UK and its partners maintain their resolve to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, even invoking the snapback process if required.
Importance of integrating UN sanctions on Iran into domestic law
The E3 countries activated the JCPoA’s Dispute Resolution Mechanism (DRM) in January 2020 due to Iran’s continued non-compliance.
The DRM was designed to provide a 30-day window for resolving outstanding issues, yet over three and a half years have elapsed without Iran complying. Paragraph 36 of the JCPoA permits suspending specific commitments if these issues remain unresolved.
In conclusion, the UK, France, and Germany’s decision to integrate UN sanctions on Iran into domestic law reflects their determination to address Iran’s nuclear program breaches.
While emphasising their commitment to diplomatic solutions, they stand united in preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, invoking appropriate measures to safeguard global security.
