Tehran: Iran, China, and Russia assert that the E3’s (Britain, Germany, and France) attempt to trigger the snapback mechanism is legally and procedurally flawed. The envoys of the Islamic Republic, China, and Russia sent a letter to Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on October 24, 2025.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the letter from the three nations highlights that the invocation of the ‘snapback’ mechanism by the E3 is fundamentally flawed both legally and procedurally. The letter argues that the E3, by violating their commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231, lack the authority to invoke the snapback provisions as they have not exhausted the existing Dispute Resolution Mechanism procedures.

The letter further asserts that as of October 18, 2025, all provisions under UNSCR 2231 have been terminated, including the mandate for the IAEA Director General’s reporti
ng on verification and monitoring. This conclusion is based on a resolution passed by the IAEA Board of Governors on December 15, 2015, which remains the sole guiding document for the IAEA Secretariat on this matter. According to the letter, the resolution states that the Board will remain engaged until ten years after the JCPOA Adoption Day or until a Broader Conclusion for Iran is reached, whichever comes first. As of the specified date in October 2025, the related agenda item has been automatically removed from the Board of Governors’ agenda, requiring no further action.

In conclusion, Iran, China, and Russia emphasize the importance of achieving a political settlement that addresses the concerns of all parties through diplomatic dialogue and engagement, based on mutual respect. They urge all parties to avoid unilateral sanctions, threats of force, or any actions that might escalate tensions. The letter expresses hope that it will be circulated to all IAEA Member States as an INFCIRC document, fostering a
favorable atmosphere for continued diplomatic efforts.