Iran holds talks with Europe on nuclear program

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s call came as the three European nations warned they could invoke the “snapback” clause of the 2015 nuclear deal by the end of the month. The provision allows sanctions to be restored if Iran is found in violation of the agreement, including blocking international inspections.

Concerns have deepened since Iran halted cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) following the June Iran-Israel war, which damaged some of its atomic sites. Without IAEA access, the global community cannot verify the size of Iran’s stockpile, including uranium enriched up to 60% purity — close to weapons-grade.

Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, though the U.S. and the IAEA say Tehran had a weapons program until 2003.

In a statement, Araghchi criticized the European stance but stressed Iran remains open to diplomacy. “Iran has never abandoned the path of diplomacy and is ready for any solution that guarantees the rights and interests of its people,” he said.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed the talks and said another round will take place next week, warning that “time is running out.” Similar concerns were echoed by Britain’s David Lammy, Germany’s Johann Wadephul and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

The three countries had already warned Iran in an Aug. 8 letter that they would trigger “snapback” if a solution was not reached by Aug. 31. Restoring IAEA access remains a key demand.

Meanwhile, IAEA officials held separate closed-door talks with Iranian representatives in Vienna, continuing discussions from an Aug. 11 visit by senior agency official Massimo Aparo.

Araghchi downplayed the “snapback” threat, saying Iran would consult with its allies, likely China and Russia. The snapback mechanism, however, expires in October — after which any sanctions move could face vetoes from Beijing or Moscow, reports UNB.