Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is advocating for a negotiated solution to curb Iran’s nuclear program following the reinstatement of a new UN sanctions regime. Wadephul emphasized the critical importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, acknowledging a temporary pause in their potential development following recent military actions by the United States and Israel. However, he warned that ultimately, such a development remains a concern, necessitating a durable, negotiated resolution.
Wadephul expressed confidence that the newly imposed sanctions will significantly impact the Iranian economy. He attributed the renewed sanctions to a lack of credibility and transparency demonstrated by Tehran in previous nuclear program negotiations. The Foreign Minister characterized the regime’s recent actions as a detrimental error, primarily impacting the citizens of Iran.
He reiterated Germany’s willingness to re-engage in discussions, stating his hope that the Iranian government will reconsider its current course. Wadephul referred to previous, unsuccessful efforts alongside the foreign ministers of Great Britain and France, aimed at encouraging Iran towards negotiations. He stated his motivation was to ensure Germany could not be faulted for failing to exhaust all avenues to prevent the reinstatement of the sanctions and pursue a diplomatic outcome.
The United Nations reactivated previously suspended sanctions against Iran last weekend, prompting the European Union to reimpose its own restrictive measures. These sanctions include prohibitions on the import and transport of Iranian crude oil and natural gas, trade in precious metals and diamonds originating from Iran and access for Iranian cargo aircraft to EU airports.
