Russia and China have blocked a United Nations Security Council resolution aimed at extending the mandate of experts who monitor sanctions imposed on Iran’s nuclear program. In a recent vote, the resolution garnered 11 votes in favor but was vetoed by the two nations, while Somalia and Pakistan abstained.
The proposed extension, backed by the United States, intended to prolong the experts’ mandate for another year, citing the need for independent monitoring to track any potential breaches of sanctions. These sanctions were reinstated in 2025 using the “snapback” mechanism from the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement, reinstating the Security Council’s framework for sanctions and oversight of their implementation.
Russia has maintained that the reactivation of sanctions through the snapback mechanism lacks legal standing, arguing this as the basis for opposing the resolution. China has similarly voiced its opposition. Despite the veto, existing sanctions on Iran remain, including restrictions on Iranian assets, arms activities, and its ballistic missile program.
This development comes amid ongoing global concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear activities. UN nuclear inspectors have faced challenges in fully verifying Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, especially after attacks on Iranian nuclear sites in 2025. The failure to extend the mandate raises questions about how the sanctions will be enforced and monitored moving forward.