Iran and Europe Race Against Sanctions Clock in High-Stakes Nuclear Talks

Iran and the three major European powers—Britain, France, and Germany—have resumed direct nuclear negotiations in Istanbul, aiming to break a deadlock over Tehran's nuclear program as the threat of renewed UN and European sanctions looms.

The talks are the first since recent military escalations involving Israel and the US, and come as Europe faces an August deadline to decide whether to reimpose sanctions lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal. Iran has warned it may withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty if sanctions return, escalating the stakes. Meanwhile, Iran is also seeking support from Russia and China to counter Western pressure.

Despite 'frank and detailed' discussions, expectations for a breakthrough remain low, with both sides under intense diplomatic and geopolitical pressure.