China, Russia, and Iran Unite Against US Sanctions Amid Nuclear Deal Tensions
In a concerted effort, China, Russia, and Iran have called for an end to what they describe as illegal unilateral sanctions imposed by Washington on Tehran. This demand followed a three-party discussion in Beijing addressing concerns surrounding the Iranian nuclear program on March 14. Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi participated in this crucial dialogue. Post-meeting, Ma emphasized, "We conducted in-depth exchanges of views on the nuclear issue and the lifting of sanctions. We highlighted the necessity of ending all illegal unilateral sanctions."
The talks took place at a critical juncture as tensions around Iran's nuclear ambitions reignite. The Iranian stance has remained firm, citing that negotiations with the Trump administration are contingent upon the cessation of its maximum pressure campaign and the lifting of sanctions. Richard Nephew, a sanctions expert who played a pivotal role in the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, expressed skepticism on the likelihood of the Trump administration dropping sanctions for talks, remarking, "I don't think there's any likelihood the Trump administration is going to drop sanctions against Iran just to talk. I wouldn't advise him to."
Historically, Iran and Russia have fortified their relationship, particularly as the Islamic Republic's disputes with the United States have escalated. This partnership has been solidified further with China as they continue to navigate their interests amid a fraught geopolitical landscape. The recent naval drills conducted by all three nations in the Gulf of Oman, specifically near the vital Strait of Hormuz, signal a demonstration of military strength amidst rising tensions in the region.
On March 13, the Iranian Foreign Ministry confirmed it received a letter from US President Donald Trump, urging a resumption of nuclear discussions while hinting at potential military action if negotiations fail. The ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baqaei, stated, "A decision on how to respond will be made after a thorough assessment."
Trump had previously exited the Iran nuclear deal in 2018, which had imposed restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. His administration criticized the deal, asserting it inadequately prevented Iran from developing nuclear weapons and accused Tehran of supporting extremist violence—a claim that Iran has vehemently denied.
In light of recent developments, the G7 foreign ministers labeled Iran as the principal source of regional instability during a joint statement on March 14, underscoring the call for Tehran to abandon its nuclear ambitions and pursue diplomacy instead. Furthermore, in a show of escalating tension, the US imposed sanctions on Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad and several Hong Kong-flagged vessels that make up Iran's strategy to deliver oil to China. Iran condemned the imposition of these sanctions as hypocritical.
As the international community closely watches these unfolding events, it remains to be seen how the continued pressure from the US and the firm stances of China, Russia, and Iran will shape the future of negotiations surrounding Iran's nuclear aspirations.
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