Moscow is reportedly prepared to support a six-month extension before the reimposition of United Nations sanctions on Iran, according to diplomatic sources familiar with the matter. This development comes as European powers consider triggering a restoration of sanctions over Iran’s nuclear activities.
France, Britain, and Germany have been preparing to activate what’s known as the “snapback” mechanism at the UN Security Council before mid-October, when key provisions of the decade-old nuclear agreement are set to expire. The mechanism would automatically restore previous UN sanctions against Tehran.
Diplomatic efforts are intensifying, with senior officials from Iran and European powers scheduled to meet in Geneva this week. Western officials have indicated they would assess Iran’s willingness to engage in meaningful negotiations before deciding on the sanctions timeline.
Recent communications between Iranian and Russian leadership have suggested Moscow’s openness to supporting a six-month extension, potentially with American approval. A Russian draft resolution proposing the extendable deadline is already circulating at UN headquarters.
The European position requires Iran to meet several conditions, including allowing international inspectors access to nuclear sites and addressing concerns about its stockpile of enriched uranium. However, Iran’s leadership has rejected direct negotiations with Washington while leaving room for mediated discussions.
The timing of any decision carries strategic importance, as Russia is scheduled to assume the rotating presidency of the Security Council next month. European powers are considering action before this transition to minimize potential procedural obstacles.
The status of Iran’s nuclear program remains unclear, though international monitors have expressed concerns about uranium enrichment levels approaching weapons-grade purity. Iranian officials maintain their nuclear activities are exclusively for peaceful purposes and deny pursuing nuclear weapons capability.
Discussions between Iranian authorities and the International Atomic Energy Agency have resumed regarding inspection protocols. The upcoming Geneva meetings are expected to focus heavily on whether Iran will fulfill its obligations under international non-proliferation agreements.
Tehran has argued that recent damage to its nuclear facilities necessitates revised inspection arrangements with the international atomic watchdog. The country’s parliament has also considered legislation that would limit cooperation with nuclear inspectors, reflecting the ongoing tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program.
