France Announces Reimposition of UN Sanctions on Iran
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot announced on Saturday that United Nations sanctions against Iran have been reinstated, while stressing that this does not mean the end of diplomacy.
Speaking to French channel LCI, Barrot said sanctions lifted a decade ago under the nuclear deal are now back in effect. These include restrictions on the sale and purchase of arms, nuclear materials and equipment, as well as banking and insurance transactions.
He explained that the move was initiated by France, Germany, and the UK to pressure Iran into providing clear guarantees about the civilian nature of its nuclear program. According to Barrot, despite repeated European requests, Iran has failed to deliver acceptable assurances.
The French foreign minister emphasized that diplomacy remains open, expressing hope that Iran will eventually provide guarantees to ease concerns over its nuclear program and regional activities, paving the way for sanctions relief once again.
Responding to concerns over potential Iranian disengagement from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Barrot insisted that dialogue is the only way to ensure full oversight of Tehran’s nuclear activities. He described Iran’s nuclear program, missile development, and support for regional armed groups as threats to regional stability and European security.
Iran, in turn, has dismissed the decision—seen by some as a “snapback” of sanctions—arguing that it had presented proposals for an agreement but Western powers’ confrontational stance prevented any progress.
The Western decision to reimpose sanctions, framed as a response to security concerns, highlights the deadlock in complex nuclear negotiations. Observers warn that continued unilateral pressure risks further straining already fragile diplomatic engagement.
