BEIJING (Realist English). China reaffirmed on Friday its commitment to a peaceful resolution of Iran’s nuclear issue, rejecting the possibility of reimposing United Nations sanctions under the so-called “snapback” mechanism.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin made the remarks after France, Germany and the United Kingdom — the European “E3” — warned this week that they would trigger the sanctions process if Tehran failed to re-engage in talks by the end of August.
“China stays committed to resolving the Iranian nuclear issue through political and diplomatic means, and opposes invoking Security Council ‘snapback’ sanctions,” Lin said. He argued that reinstating sanctions would undermine trust, complicate negotiations, and delay efforts to restart dialogue.
Lin stressed that any UN Security Council action should “facilitate the achievement of new agreements rather than undermine the negotiation process,” adding that Beijing would continue to promote dialogue, safeguard the nuclear non-proliferation regime, and support regional peace and stability.
Iran, meanwhile, confirmed that it is coordinating with China and Russia to counter the European initiative. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Thursday that Tehran is working with both powers to block the move, but added: “If this does not work and they apply it, we have tools to respond.”
The snapback clause, included in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), allows for the automatic reimposition of UN sanctions lifted under the agreement. The deal is set to expire in October. Tehran disputes the legitimacy of Britain, France and Germany to invoke the provision, arguing that they forfeited their standing as JCPOA participants after failing to meet their obligations.
China and Russia have echoed Iran’s position, both insisting that the European powers no longer have the authority to activate the mechanism. As permanent members of the Security Council with veto power, Beijing and Moscow are central to Tehran’s strategy to resist renewed sanctions.
