European Powers Urge Iran to Continue Diplomatic Talks Amid Rising Tensions

On June 20, European powers called on Iran to pursue diplomatic avenues with the United States regarding the ongoing tensions surrounding its nuclear program, as Israel intensifies its military actions against the Islamic Republic. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated after discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his British, French, and EU counterparts, "The good result today is that we leave the room with the impression that the Iranian side is ready to further discuss all the important questions." He emphasized the necessity of U.S. participation in these negotiations, underscoring that a solution hinges on their involvement. The joint statement from the four foreign ministers, released in their native languages following the Geneva talks, conveyed optimism about potential progress but did not indicate any significant breakthroughs. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed the urgency of continued dialogue, urging Iran to maintain its discussions with the U.S. "This is a perilous moment, and it is hugely important that we don't see a regional escalation of this conflict," he cautioned. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot echoed these concerns, asserting that the nuclear issue cannot be resolved by military means. "Military operations can delay it, but they cannot eliminate it," he stressed. Barrot also addressed provocative remarks made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who did not rule out the option of targeting Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He warned against the belief that regime change could be effectively imposed from outside, stating, "It is up to the people to decide their own destiny." The ministers invited Iran to engage in negotiations with all parties, including the United States, without waiting for an end to military strikes, which they hope will cease soon. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas added that escalating tensions in the region serve no one's interests and emphasized the need to keep channels of communication open. According to the Iranian state-run IRNA news agency, the Iranian delegation reiterated the country's commitment to the negotiating table, despite the backdrop of intensified military action from Israel. Israel launched its campaign the previous Friday, citing its aim to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons—an objective that Iran has consistently denied pursuing. In response, Iran has also conducted strikes that have resulted in damage within Israel. The situation remains tense, and the future of diplomatic negotiations over Iran's nuclear program hangs in the balance as European powers continue to plead for dialogue. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2