Daily Life in Iran After the Snapback Mechanism Activation: Economic, Social, and Political Impacts

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was negotiated in 2015 with the goal of curbing Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. The deal was seen as a breakthrough, fostering hope for improved diplomatic relations and economic stability.

However, in 2018, the United States, under President Donald Trump, unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA, reimposing comprehensive sanctions and effectively crippling Iran’s economy. The snapback clause was designed as a last-resort tool—a mechanism to restore sanctions if Iran violated the agreement.

1.2. The Mechanics of the Snapback Activation

The snapback process allows designated parties—initially the US, EU, and UN—to initiate a “snapback” by submitting a formal notice to the United Nations Security Council. This triggers an automatic reimposition of existing sanctions.