"UN Slaps Iran with Sweeping Sanctions, 10 Years After Nuclear Deal Betrayal"

UN Reimposes Sweeping Sanctions on Iran 10 Years After Landmark Nuclear Deal The United Nations has reimposed sweeping economic and military sanctions on Iran, effective immediately, in response to what the international community deems "continued nuclear escalation" and lack of cooperation from Tehran. The move marks a significant escalation in tensions between Iran and its Western counterparts, which have been at odds over the country's nuclear program for years. According to Reuters, the UK, France, and Germany - the three European partners to the 2015 nuclear deal - activated the so-called "snapback" mechanism, allowing them to reimpose sanctions on Iran. This decision was made in response to what they described as "continued nuclear escalation" by Tehran, which has been accused of violating international agreements. The sanctions, which were lifted in 2015 under the landmark nuclear deal, target various sectors of the Iranian economy, including oil and gas exports, banking, and military procurement. The move is expected to have a significant impact on Iran's economy, with many experts predicting widespread economic disruption and potential humanitarian consequences. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had previously assured the international community that his country has no intention of developing nuclear weapons. However, according to multiple sources, including Reuters and The Guardian, Tehran has continued to pursue its nuclear program, sparking concerns among Western powers. The reimposition of sanctions comes despite efforts by the European Union to salvage the 2015 deal, which was signed by Iran, the US, China, Russia, France, Germany, and the UK. However, in May 2020, the US withdrew from the agreement, citing concerns over Iran's nuclear activities and ballistic missile development. UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, alongside her French and German counterparts, urged Iran against "escalatory action" in a joint statement released earlier this week. The three European powers emphasized their commitment to upholding international agreements and called on Tehran to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to resolve outstanding concerns over its nuclear program. The reimposition of sanctions has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups, who warn that the move will exacerbate humanitarian suffering in Iran. According to a statement released by Amnesty International, "the reimposition of sanctions on Iran is a recipe for disaster, which will only serve to further entrench poverty and inequality in the country." As tensions between Iran and its Western counterparts continue to escalate, many experts are left wondering what the future holds for the region. With the US having withdrawn from the 2015 deal and now reimposing sanctions, it remains to be seen whether a new agreement can be reached or if the situation will continue to deteriorate. The United Nations has announced that it will provide humanitarian assistance to affected populations in Iran, including food, medicine, and other essential supplies. However, with the economic impact of the sanctions expected to be severe, many are left wondering how long this aid will last and what the ultimate consequences will be for the people of Iran. In a statement released earlier today, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized his commitment to upholding international law and promoting peace and stability in the region. "The United Nations remains committed to supporting the people of Iran and working towards a peaceful resolution to this crisis," he said. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the reimposition of sanctions on Iran marks a significant escalation in tensions between Tehran and its Western counterparts, with far-reaching consequences for the region and beyond. This story was compiled from reports by BBC World, Multi-source: BBC World and BBC World.