Europe Offers Iran Sanctions Relief in Exchange for Nuclear Talks

European powers are prepared to delay UN sanctions on Iran if Tehran agrees to restart negotiations with the US and cooperate with international nuclear inspectors. The proposal, outlined by Western diplomats ahead of a critical meeting in Istanbul, marks a pivotal moment in the strained relations following Israel's recent military offensive against Iran.

The E3—Britain, France, and Germany—faces mounting pressure to decide whether to trigger the snapback mechanism from the defunct 2015 nuclear deal. This clause would automatically reinstate UN sanctions, a move that could further destabilize Iran's already struggling economy. The original agreement collapsed after former US President Donald TRUMP withdrew and imposed crippling sanctions, prompting Iran to escalate its nuclear activities.

Diplomats suggest the E3 may extend the sanctions deadline beyond mid-September, buying time for diplomacy. However, the offer is conditional: Iran must engage with the Trump administration and grant the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) greater oversight. "If Iran comes to the table and works toward compliance, we can avoid escalation," a Western official told the Financial Times.