German minister threatens Iran with re-imposition of sanctions

Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (l, CDU) is welcomed by his counterpart Margus Tsahkna on his inaugural visit. Photo: Jörg Blank/dpa

Keystone

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has once again threatened Iran with the start of the mechanism to reintroduce nuclear sanctions due to its nuclear program - and at the same time reaffirmed his desire for a diplomatic solution.

Keystone-SDA

28.08.2025, 14:29

Germany, France and the UK have always said "that the instruments of a snapback are available", said the Christian Democrat during an appearance with his Estonian colleague Margus Tsahkna in Tallinn in response to a question from journalists.

Wadephul added: "At the same time, we have always made it clear that we are interested in a diplomatic solution." Germany, France and the UK - known as the E3 - "have always made it clear that they are pursuing a clear policy towards Iran, namely to prevent renewed nuclear armament", said the Foreign Minister.

That is why they want to take "very restrictive measures with regard to the enrichment of the relevant precursors". In this context, there will be very intensive joint discussions on "what is necessary at this time".

Is the snapback mechanism already in operation today?

The E3 could already trigger the mechanism for the reintroduction of nuclear sanctions against Iran today. According to the German Press Agency (dpa), this process is to be set in motion in the UN Security Council in New York if Iran does not give in at the last minute. The background to this is the lack of progress in the nuclear talks with Tehran.

With this snapback mechanism, old UN sanctions such as the general arms embargo and numerous punitive measures against Iranian individuals and organizations can be reinstated.