Europe Scrambles to Avert Iran Nuclear Crisis as Sanctions Threat Looms

European powers—Britain, France, and Germany—are urgently resuming face-to-face nuclear talks with Iran in Istanbul, aiming to prevent the reimposition of sweeping UN sanctions.

The talks come as the deadline for the 'snapback' mechanism, which could restore sanctions lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal, rapidly approaches. Iran is warning it may withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty if sanctions return, escalating tensions further. Meanwhile, Iran is seeking support from Russia and China to counter Western pressure.

Expectations for a breakthrough are low, but both sides are under intense pressure to avoid a diplomatic collapse that could destabilize the region.