Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Geneva on Friday for discussions with European officials but firmly ruled out any ceasefire negotiations while Israeli military strikes against Iran continue.
The talks, involving ministers from France, Germany, and the UK, come as Israel’s offensive against Iran enters its second week. Tehran insists Araghchi’s presence is only to hear Europe’s stance, not to engage in formal negotiations.
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Iran Vows Retaliation, Keeps Diplomatic Door Ajar
Iran has pledged further retaliatory strikes against Israel, asserting that dialogue will only resume once hostilities cease. However, officials signaled openness to future diplomacy under the right conditions.
Araghchi emphasized that Iran’s position is non-negotiable while under attack. “Our priority is defending our sovereignty,” he stated.
Civilian Toll Mounts as Strikes Hit Homes and Hospitals
An Israeli drone struck a residential building in Tehran’s Gisha district on Friday, while attacks over the past week have damaged five Iranian hospitals, disrupting medical care, according to emergency services.
In retaliation, Iran has launched missile and drone strikes on Israel, killing at least 25 people and injuring hundreds. Israeli authorities report two dozen civilian deaths, while Iranian sources claim 639 fatalities, including military officials and civilians.
West Seeks De-escalation Amid Fears of Wider Conflict
European leaders are pushing for renewed diplomacy after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met EU counterparts to discuss the crisis. The U.S., UK, France, and others reiterated that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons.
British Foreign Minister David Lammy warned of a “perilous” situation but noted a “two-week window” for a diplomatic solution.
Trump Weighs U.S. Involvement
U.S. President Donald Trump said he will decide within two weeks whether to join Israel’s campaign, citing a “substantial chance” for negotiations. The White House warned Iran could produce a nuclear weapon “within weeks” but urged trust in Trump’s judgment.
Netanyahu Denies Regime Change Goal, Russia Warns of Escalation
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied seeking regime change in Iran but affirmed Israel’s capability to destroy Iranian nuclear sites, with or without U.S. support.
The Kremlin condemned any attempt to remove Iran’s leadership, calling it “unacceptable” and warning of catastrophic consequences.
Regional Tensions Soar
The conflict, dubbed Operation Rising Lion by Israel, began on June 13 with strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Iran retaliated with over 500 drones and missiles, targeting Israeli cities like Beersheva, where a Microsoft office and a hospital were hit.
With both sides trading accusations of civilian targeting, the crisis risks spiraling into a broader regional war, further destabilizing the Middle East.
