Sweeping UN economic and military sanctions have been reimposed on Iran - 10 years after they were lifted in a landmark international deal over its nuclear programme. The new measures took effect as the three European partners to the deal - the UK, France, and Germany - activated the so-called 'snapback' mechanism, accusing Iran of 'continued nuclear escalation' and a lack of cooperation.

Iran suspended inspections of its nuclear facilities - a legal obligation under the terms of the 2015 deal - after Israel and the US bombed several of its nuclear sites and military bases in June. Its President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that the country has no intention of developing nuclear weapons.

The reinstatement of sanctions - which Pezeshkian called 'unfair, unjust, and illegal' - is seen as a blow to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) that previously limited Iran's nuclear activities. Tensions have heightened since the US withdrawal from the deal in 2018 under the Trump administration, with subsequent military actions further complicating the diplomatic landscape.

European allies remain hopeful for negotiations despite the tough stance on sanctions, emphasizing the importance of dialogue despite current obstacles. Iran's foreign ministry warned that actions undermining its rights would lead to firm responses, signaling continued strife in this complex geopolitical issue.