The United Nations Security Council unanimously voted (15–0), Aug. 20, to reimpose sanctions against Iran as of 8 p.m. EST, Saturday. The decision came after a close 4-9 vote, with two members present who abstained from voting. This result highlights a significant rift between global governments and Iran’s leaders regarding their compliance with nuclear obligations.
France, Germany and Britain stood at the forefront to defend Tehran. They continued to blame the country for the collapse of the 2015 nuclear agreement meant to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The three European nations, alongside the United States, argued that Iran’s actions warranted a return to sanctions due to its nuclear program.
As many of you know, Russian and Chinese diplomats fought vigorously to postpone the reimposition of sanctions. They failed to persuade a majority of council members to support their anti-rail stance. Jérôme Bonnafont, France’s permanent representative to the UN in New York, went out on a limb. He further stressed that it is on Iran to show sincere efforts to avoid re-imposition of sanctions. His remarks highlighted the absence of any progress in ongoing negotiations to bring Iran back into compliance with the agreement.
Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia’s deputy UN envoy, countered that Tehran has done its part. He thinks that these efforts are directed at soothing the angry European powers. He denounced developed countries for their hardline positions and unwillingness to negotiate on the matter. He claimed that their obstinacy was the principal reason for the council’s decision.
The reimposition of sanctions represents a dramatic turning point in international diplomacy over Iran’s nuclear program. These sanctions will likely have far-reaching effects on Iran’s economy and its diplomatic ties with other countries. Concerns regarding a reemergence of hostilities in the area hang heavily as the story continues to play out.
