Diplomacy on Hold: Iran and Israel Locked in Escalating Military Confrontation

Iran has announced it will not return to nuclear negotiations while under military attack, pointing directly at Israel's ongoing strikes. The statement followed Israel’s warning of a potentially "prolonged" conflict, marking a further slide into open hostility. Iran insists that any diplomatic discussion can only begin once Israeli aggression ends, leaving hopes for de-escalation on pause.

Tensions boiled over on Friday as Iran launched another salvo of missiles into northern Israel, prompting swift retaliation. The Israel Defense Forces reported targeting multiple missile facilities and command centers inside Iran. In Haifa, a woman died from a heart attack during the strike, bringing Israel’s civilian death toll to 25 amid continued bombardments.

At the same time, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with diplomats from Britain, France, Germany, and the EU in Geneva. While European leaders encouraged reviving dialogue with the U.S., Araghchi stood firm. He reiterated that Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful and described Israeli airstrikes as violations of international law and acts of provocation.

Iran’s top diplomat also emphasized that Iran's defense systems and military posture are non-negotiable. He warned that Iran will continue exercising its right to self-defense. Israel, on the other hand, maintains that Iran poses an existential threat, with its ambassador to the UN accusing Tehran of pursuing a “genocidal agenda” and defending Israel’s strikes on nuclear facilities.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Tehran, giving the Islamic Republic a two-week window to halt escalation or face possible U.S. airstrikes. Speaking to reporters, Trump noted that he may act even sooner, depending on Iran’s response. He criticized Europe’s diplomatic efforts, saying Iran is uninterested in their mediation and only wants direct talks with Washington.

UK and French officials continued to stress the urgency of diplomacy. Foreign Secretary David Lammy acknowledged the narrow timeline imposed by the U.S. and labeled the crisis “deadly serious.” French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot echoed the call for diplomacy, adding that military action would not bring a lasting solution and warning against pushing for regime change in Iran.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, violence between Iran and Israel has shown no signs of slowing. Israel has reportedly killed high-ranking Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists in targeted strikes. In response, Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles. While Iran’s health ministry reported at least 224 deaths, independent human rights groups have estimated the toll to be much higher—up to 639—signaling a humanitarian disaster in the making.