European Powers Say Sanctions Relief for Iran Hinges on Nuclear Steps

Britain, France, Germany and Italy said overnight between Sunday and Monday that they are prepared to lift sanctions on Iran if Tehran takes meaningful steps on its nuclear program. The four countries issued a joint statement saying sanctions relief would come only in response to concrete Iranian action on the nuclear issue.

Their leaders said, "Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons," and added that they are ready to work with the United States, Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency to achieve that goal. The announcement came after the White House said it had reached an agreement with Tehran.

In Israel, security officials warned that the understandings do not fully address the central threats posed by Iran's nuclear program. They said the deal appears fragile, was assembled on an accelerated timeline, and could still leave Tehran with significant capabilities in the future, including the ability to move toward nuclear weapons.