The Window for Sanctioning Iran Is Closing
Israel and the United States did Europe and the civilized world a massive favor by striking Iran’s nuclear program and much of the regime’s ballistic missile production facilities. Iran’s missiles and drones have already helped slaughter European civilians and cities in Ukraine—a successful nuclear weapon program would imperil European capitals as well. The United States never expected Europe to participate in the strikes, but now Europe must do its part in implementing sanctions—and fast.
The first Trump administration returned economic sanctions on Iran unilaterally. But Europe is in the driver’s seat to restore and retain the vital international arms and nuclear sanctions at the United Nations. These restrictions from the old Iran deal are expiring fast. The most pivotal sunset arrives on October 18, 2025, the deal’s self-described “Termination Day.” If that day comes and goes without action from the West, the possibility of re-initiating UN sanctions against Iran, including arms, missile, and nuclear embargoes, will expire permanently, and the UN Security Council will officially close the........
© The National Interest
