The United Nations Security Council will vote on Friday on whether to reimpose sanctions on Iran. The meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. in New York, the Council’s rotating presidency has confirmed.
Why the Vote Matters
Britain, France, and Germany often called the “European Three” triggered the process after accusing Iran of breaking the 2015 nuclear deal. Known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the deal was designed to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
Diplomatic sources say the resolution may fail to get the nine votes needed to keep sanctions lifted. If that happens, the sanctions will return.
Accusations Against Iran
In a letter sent in August, the European nations said Iran had gone far beyond its commitments. They pointed out that Tehran’s uranium stockpile is now more than 40 times the limit set by the JCPOA.
These breaches, they argue, make it impossible to keep the current arrangement in place.
A Deal in Crisis
The JCPOA has faced trouble for years. In 2018, the United States pulled out under then-President Donald Trump and reimposed its own sanctions. In response, Iran began rolling back its commitments and expanding its nuclear activities.
Tensions rose even higher after the 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June. The conflict derailed talks between Tehran and Washington. It also led Iran to stop working with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Soon after, inspectors from the UN body left the country.
What Happens Next
The vote on Friday will be a turning point. If sanctions are reimposed, Iran will face new international pressure. If not, efforts to save the fragile nuclear deal may continue.
Either way, the outcome will shape the future of Iran’s nuclear program and its relations with the world.