Sweeping UN sanctions look likely to return on Iran after the failure of a last-ditch effort on Friday by China and Russia to secure a delay to allow further talks to salvage a landmark nuclear deal.

European powers have urged Iran to reverse a series of steps it took after Israel and the United States bombed its nuclear sites in June — but Iran has insisted any effort to reimpose sanctions is “legally void.”

China and Russia’s effort to buy time for diplomacy was rejected by nine countries against four in favor.

“UN sanctions, targeting Iranian proliferation, will be reimposed this weekend,” said Britain’s ambassador to the UN Barbara Woodward.

“We stand ready to continue discussions with Iran on a diplomatic solution to address international concerns about its nuclear program. In tur

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