China's representative to the Security Council: Consideration of the Iranian nuclear issue has ended

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - International Service: Fukong said at the UN Security Council meeting that the insistence of some countries to hold a meeting on an issue that has been removed from the agenda undermines the atmosphere for negotiations. He added that the Security Council no longer has any mandate to consider the Iranian nuclear issue.

 

Security Council Resolution 2231, which was adopted on July 20, 2015 (Tir 29, 2015), included the provisions of the JCPOA and the program to lift Iran's nuclear sanctions. The resolution, which was approved with 15 votes in favor, no votes against, and no abstentions, is known as one of the longest and most detailed resolutions in the history of the Security Council.

 

According to operative paragraph 8 of this resolution, all its provisions will expire after October 18, 2025 (26 Mehr 1404). In a joint letter to the President of the Security Council and the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Iran, Russia and China have emphasized the complete termination of this resolution and believe that with its expiration, the Iranian nuclear issue will officially be removed from the Security Council’s agenda.

 

However, some Western countries, relying on their interpretation of the JCPOA, insist on activating the mechanism for restoring sanctions (snapback) through the Security Council. This is while, according to Security Council procedures, for the return of sanctions, a resolution is needed that the permanent members of the Council (including Russia and China) can veto.

 

According to experts, China’s stance on terminating the investigation into the Iranian nuclear issue reflects a deep disagreement among Security Council members about the legal status of Resolution 2231 after its expiration. Studies show that with the expiration of this resolution, Iran will be removed from the Security Council agenda and any move to revive sanctions will face opposition from Russia and China.

 

Observers say these differences reflect the continuing political tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear program at the international level, which continue to cast a shadow over the diplomatic atmosphere despite the expiration of the resolution. According to experts, the pragmatic approach of Russia and China towards the end of the investigation of this case could help reduce international pressure on Iran.