Russia and China’s draft resolution receives only four votes in favour

The UN Security Council on Friday vetoed a draft resolution submitted by Russia and China that sought to delay the “snapback” sanctions on Iran. The resolution received only four votes in favour, with nine members voting against and two abstaining.

The draft aimed to extend the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran’s nuclear programme until 18 April 2026 and postpone the implementation of the “snapback” mechanism triggered by France and the UK.

Ahead of the vote, Russia’s deputy envoy Dmitry Polyansky said the resolution “provides room to seek a solution acceptable to all parties.” China’s deputy envoy Geng Shuang added that the draft “does not aim to take sides between Iran and the E3,” noting its primary goal was to allow more time for diplomatic efforts.

Countries voting against the resolution included the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Denmark, Slovenia, Sierra Leone, Panama, Greece, and Somalia.

The E3 – the UK, France, and Germany – are signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal, which requires Iran to limit uranium enrichment and allow international inspectors to verify that its nuclear programme is solely for peaceful purposes.

Following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Tehran halted cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). On 28 August, the E3 invoked the “snapback” mechanism under UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which will reinstate sanctions within 30 days if Iran fails to meet its obligations.

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