United nations: China firmly opposes the forcible push for a snapback of sanctions against Iran, stated a Chinese envoy on Friday. Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, expressed these views after the Security Council failed to adopt a resolution that would continue to provide sanctions relief for Iran under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
According to Namibia Press Agency, Fu Cong emphasized China's support for keeping the Security Council sanctions against Iran terminated and confirmed China's vote in favor of the draft resolution. He criticized the forcible push by certain countries for a "snapback mechanism," arguing that it severely undermines diplomatic efforts for a political resolution of the Iran nuclear issue.
Fu Cong attributed the current challenging situation regarding the Iran nuclear deal to the U.S. withdrawal from the agreement in 2018. He noted that the United States reinstated and escalated sanctions against Iran, depriving the country of economic benefits promised under the deal and leaving Iran with limited options but to reduce its commitments.
Fu further criticized the United States for launching military strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, which he claimed disrupted the negotiation process the U.S. had initiated. Meanwhile, Britain, France, and Germany insist on activating the "snapback mechanism" to unilaterally punish Iran, which Fu described as unfair and unreasonable.
He warned that such actions cause tension and division among Security Council members, hinder efforts to rebuild trust and bridge differences, and may lead to catastrophic consequences that could negate years of diplomatic efforts. China remains gravely concerned, Fu stated.
Fu reiterated China's stance that a political and diplomatic solution is the only viable path to resolving the Iranian nuclear issue and achieving lasting peace. He called on all parties to remain calm, exercise restraint, and resolve issues through diplomacy and dialogue to avoid the cycle of sanctions and escalating tensions.
The Security Council should play a constructive role in building trust and advancing the political process to negotiate a new agreement. China and Russia have proposed a draft resolution for the technical extension of the JCPOA and Resolution 2231, aiming to provide time for diplomacy and create conditions for a political solution, which Fu urged parties to consider seriously.
As a JCPOA participant and a permanent member of the Security Council, China remains committed to a political settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue and to maintaining security and stability in the Middle East. Fu assured that China will continue to uphold an objective position, strive to promote peace talks, and play a constructive role in advancing the political process.