The conflict between Iran and Israel continues to escalate, with both countries exchanging missile attacks for an eighth day. Hundreds of thousands of people have taken to the streets of Tehran to protest against Israel’s actions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has condemned the Israeli attacks as a “betrayal” of diplomatic efforts with the US, stating that Iran and the US were supposed to craft a “promising agreement” on the Iranian nuclear program.
Araghchi emphasized that Iran’s missile program is non-negotiable and that his country has “nothing to discuss” with the US as long as Israel continues its strikes on Iran. However, he expressed openness to “dialogue” with others, though not negotiations. The Iranian foreign minister made these remarks during a meeting with European officials in Geneva, where he also accused Israel of launching an “unprovoked aggression” on Iran in stark violation of the UN Charter.
The meeting in Geneva involves Araghchi and the foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the UK, as well as EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy believes a diplomatic solution can be achieved within the next two weeks. “A window now exists within the next two weeks to achieve a diplomatic solution,” Lammy said.
Meanwhile, the White House has announced that President Donald Trump will decide within the next two weeks whether the US will join Israel in attacking Iran. This decision comes amid growing tensions and the possibility of negotiations between the US and Iran.
The conflict has resulted in significant damage and loss of life. According to the Iranian government, the Israeli strikes have killed 224 people and injured 1,277 others. The Israeli strikes have targeted key sites like Natanz and nuclear scientists, setting Iran’s nuclear program back by a year. However, the Fordow facility, crucial for full-scale uranium enrichment, remains intact.
In response to the Iranian missile attacks, Israel’s Magen David Adom rescue service has reported 17 people wounded, including three in serious condition. The Israeli army has signaled missile attacks and instructed people to stay in protected areas.
The international community is growing increasingly concerned about the potential consequences of this conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that an Israeli attack on Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant could lead to a “Chernobyl-style catastrophe”. The US and UK have expressed unity in preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
As the situation continues to unfold, the possibility of a wider regional war looms large. The conflict’s impact on the global economy, particularly the oil market, is also a concern. Experts believe that while Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, it is unlikely to do so due to the significant economic costs involved.