On Wednesday 23 May, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, put pressure on Europeans, with a real list of grievances for his country to remain in the nuclear deal.
"If the Europeans hesitate in responding to our demands, Iran is entitled to resuming its nuclear activities. When we find out the JCPOA (joint comprehensive plan of action) has no benefits, one of our options is to resume cancelled activities", he warned, again underlining that he did not trust the Europeans.
The Ayatollah called for guarantees on the development of the Iranian economy. "If the US manages to impede our oil sale, we should be able to sell our desired amount of oil", he said. European banks must guarantee business transactions with Iran, he added.
The Supreme Leader also set out his opposition to any discussion on the Iranian ballistic programme or its role in the region. "The leaders of the three European countries (France, Germany and the UK) must commit and promise not to raise the issue of the Islamic Republic's missiles and regional affairs. Everyone must know that the Islamic Republic of Iran will certainly not renounce the elements of its power, especially as regards its defence", he warned. Discussions are nevertheless ongoing on the role of Tehran in Yemen, and a new meeting on this could be held in Brussels in June (see EUROPE 12015).
When questioned at the European Business Forum on 24 May, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini said it was possible to preserve the Iran deal (JCPOA) on condition the Iranians do not leave it. "The big question will be on the Iranian side", she said. "Although there are challenges in economic development, we are determined to address these positively", she added. Mogherini highlighted the measures taken by the EU, particularly towards SMEs that have, or would like to, invest in Iran, at a time when big companies fear falling under the blow of American sanctions. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)