The recent threat by France, the UK, and Germany to activate the snapback mechanism is not merely directed at Iran—it carries a dual message to both Tehran and Washington. Through this move, Europe is seeking to reassert its forgotten role in the nuclear negotiations. These threats are neither based on legal foundations nor on the commitments of the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action); rather, they are above all an attempt to redefine Europe’s standing in future diplomatic equations.
A Message to White House: Europe Will Not Be Sidelined
The European trio—France, the UK, and Germany—has resorted to threatening the use of the snapback mechanism at a time when informal talks between Iran and the U.S. are being pursued without European involvement. From this angle, the threat is not only meant to pressure Iran, but also to caution the United States: Europe does not intend to sit idly by while a deal is shaped without its participation. It is a tool of intervention in a process that might otherwise conclude without taking European interests into account.
France: Europe’s Invisible Spokesperson or Strategic Leader?
Among the three European countries, France is making a particular effort to cement its strategic role. Paris’s policies—especially its pointed rhetoric about the snapback mechanism—reflect a diplomatic ambition pursued more overtly and aggressively than by London or Berlin. Iran, in turn, has responded in kind, signaling its attentiveness by issuing a carefully worded response in French. This demonstrated that Tehran is closely monitoring France’s maneuvers and is prepared to respond in kind should the threats continue.
Baseless Threats: Undermining JCPOA and Diplomacy
By issuing such threats, Europe is in effect breaching its own commitments under the JCPOA. The instrumental use of the snapback mechanism lacks legal legitimacy and runs counter to the diplomatic values often championed by the West. This unstable policy not only raises tensions but also reveals Europe’s confusion in adopting coherent, sustainable strategies. So far, they have failed to offer any practical plan to resolve the nuclear impasse.
Iran’s Response: A Warning to Europe and U.S.
Iran has consistently shown its readiness for meaningful dialogue, grounded in the principles of diplomacy. However, in the face of unilateral pressure and unjust threats, it has responded firmly. Tehran has clearly warned that political exploitation of the snapback mechanism could provoke serious countermeasures—including the complete suspension of its JCPOA commitments. This position is aimed at both Europe and the United States, cautioning Washington not to assume it can proceed with negotiations and reach an agreement without encountering political and legal consequences.
Snapback: Tool of Monopoly or Leverage?
Europe’s recent approach—particularly France’s—appears less concerned with resolving the crisis and more with containing developments spinning beyond its control. Within this framework, the snapback mechanism is not merely a threat against Iran, but also a bargaining tool intended to bring Europe back to the diplomatic table alongside the U.S. A threat of this nature, if misunderstood, could escalate into a broader, multi-sided crisis in international relations.
NOURNEWS