Source: CCTV News

On September 19th, the UN Security Council voted on whether to extend the exemption period of sanctions against Iran. In the end, there were 4 votes in favor, 9 votes against and 2 abstentions. With less than 9 votes agreeing to continue the exemption, the relevant sanctions against Iran will be restored on September 28th. China, Russia, Pakistan and Algeria voted in favor of extending the exemption period.

However, despite the failure of the Security Council to extend the resolution by passing the sanctions exemption period, negotiations may continue during the next week of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

According to the comprehensive agreement on the Iranian nuclear issue signed by Iran with the United States, Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany in 2015, Iran promised to limit its nuclear program, and the international community lifted sanctions against Iran. The Security Council subsequently adopted Resolution 2231, which approved the agreement. This resolution contains a "quick restoration of sanctions" mechanism, which allows signatories of the agreement to take measures to deal with Iran's violations. The mechanism is valid until October 18th this year.

The three foreign ministers issued a joint statement on August 28 that the three countries notified the Security Council on the same day to launch the "rapid resumption of sanctions" mechanism, if the Security Council fails to pass a resolution on extending the period of exemption from sanctions on Iran within 30 days, the relevant sanctions will be resumed.

Previously, China-Russia jointly drafted a resolution calling for a six-month extension of the Iran nuclear agreement and Security Council resolution 2231 until April 18, 2026.

Source: CCTV News