
Iran’s Foreign Ministry on July 21, 2025, accused European signatories—France, Germany, and the UK, of failing to honor the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), escalating tensions over the faltering nuclear agreement.
Spokesperson Nasser Kanaani claimed that Europe’s refusal to lift sanctions and provide economic incentives, despite Iran’s compliance with uranium enrichment limits, violates the deal’s spirit. This follows a July 18 International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report confirming Iran’s stockpile remains below 3.67% enrichment, yet European leaders have pushed for stricter monitoring amid stalled talks.
The accusation comes as the U.S., which withdrew in 2018, has signaled openness to rejoin under new terms, while Iran insists on full sanction relief first. Critics in Tehran argue Europe’s stance reflects political pressure from Washington, a narrative supported by a 20% drop in European-Iran trade since 2023.
Conversely, European diplomats assert Iran’s regional proxy activities, including support for Houthi attacks, justify their caution. The deadlock raises fears of renewed escalation, with analysts noting the deal’s survival hinges on compromise, though trust deficits on both sides complicate negotiations.