Iran warns E3 against politicizing IAEA report: Exclusive

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
31 May 2025 14:05
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Iranian political sources tell Al Mayadeen that any European move toward using the snapback mechanism will trigger a firm and calculated response.

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Various centrifuge machines line the hall at the Natanz Uranium Enrichment Facility, on April 17, 2021. (IRIB via AP, File)

Iranian political sources have told Al Mayadeen that the European trio, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, are intensifying pressure on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to issue a negative report on Iran’s nuclear program, despite recent signs of diplomatic openness from Tehran.

The sources revealed that this pressure campaign began even before the latest round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington, and has continued unabated, undermining the potential for constructive engagement.

“Despite Iran’s messages of goodwill, the E3 continue to pursue the path of pressuring the IAEA,” the sources stated.

This comes as Western powers plan to push the IAEA to declare Iran in breach of nuclear obligations, marking the first such move in nearly 20 years, escalating tensions despite indirect talks with the US currently taking place to arrive at a nuclear deal.

Tehran, according to the same sources, conveyed a clear warning to E3 representatives during recent discussions in Istanbul, cautioning that any escalation through the IAEA would have direct consequences on the indirect negotiations with the United States and efforts to reach a sustainable agreement.

“There has been a shift in the atmosphere, and Iran has expressed readiness to send more positive signals,” the sources added. “Yet, the E3's pressure remains unchanged.”

Tehran sees E3 pressure as a snapback mechanism trigger.

Iran now views this trajectory as a calculated move by the three countries to trigger the sanctions snapback mechanism, a provision that would reinstate UN sanctions lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal.

“Continuing to pressure Iran despite its positive steps is seen as a strategic attempt by Europe to justify invoking the snapback mechanism,” one source said.

Tehran has reportedly reaffirmed, through diplomatic channels with European capitals, that it will not remain passive in the face of escalatory measures. While its current responses are described as “measured and technical,” Iranian officials have made it clear that activating the snapback mechanism would cross a red line.

“If the E3 proceeds with the snapback option, everything will change. Iran’s nuclear policy would shift entirely,” the sources warned.

“Iran has demonstrated in the past that it will not sit idly by while its nuclear rights are violated.”

Despite the mounting tensions, the sources stressed that the window for a diplomatic resolution remains open, urging European parties to act rationally and responsibly.