Israel and Iran have intensified their conflict with another exchange of strikes, as European diplomats engage in high-level discussions in Geneva to explore diplomatic resolutions. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi took part in talks with top EU representatives and ministers from the UK, France, and Germany. British Foreign Secretary voiced a commitment to continue dialogue with Iran but provided scant details on the proceedings.
Demonstrations erupted in Tehran in response to Israeli airstrikes, with one protester questioning the possibility of compromise amidst breaches of agreements. The Israeli military launched airstrikes targeting missile infrastructures in Iran, and Iranian missiles wounded 19 individuals in Haifa. According to Human Rights Activists, a week of strikes by Israel has resulted in significant casualties and injuries in Iran.
A flight evacuating Chinese citizens from Iran arrived in Beijing, with reports stating over 2,000 Chinese nationals have been evacuated from Iran, while around 400 have departed from Israel. Concurrently, Arab foreign ministers gathered in Istanbul to discuss the regional impacts of the conflict. Iraq’s Foreign Minister highlighted the broader regional threat and called for influencing European positions and engaging directly with the U.S. He warned of the severe economic implications if the conflict affects energy supplies and the Strait of Hormuz.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump distinguished his past Iraq War critique from the current Iran situation, expressing skepticism about Iran’s intentions for nuclear power, citing its significant oil resources. In Gaza, Israeli fuel delivery blockades have stretched to 16 weeks, severely impacting operations and aid delivery. The number of malnourished children in Gaza is rising alarmingly, calling for large-scale aid. Iran accused Israel of attacking hospitals and committing war crimes, voicing these charges at the U.N. Security Council.
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck parts of Iran, centered near Semnan province, without immediate reports of casualties. Diplomatic talks between Iran and Europe in Geneva indicate readiness for diplomacy, provided Israel ceases its attacks. U.N. reports suggest Iran’s nuclear program remains open for inspection, while emphasizing diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions are viable if pursued. The U.S. Treasury sanctioned entities related to Houthi activities, aiming to disrupt the group’s financial channels supporting their aggression in the region.
Israel’s military activities have caused injuries in Haifa from Iranian missile attacks, prompting international evacuations. Switzerland and Britain are temporarily closing embassies in Tehran due to military operations and security concerns. Thousands of Americans have sought information on evacuations from Israel and Iran, amid plans for potential flights and maritime options.
Hezbollah supporters in Lebanon and demonstrators in Iraq and elsewhere have shown solidarity with Iran, protesting against Israel and the U.S. Meanwhile, European leaders have highlighted negotiation efforts in Geneva, with discussions underscoring the importance of diplomacy over military action. President Putin noted ongoing efforts to protect Russian personnel working at Iran’s nuclear facilities, amidst heightening tensions.
Despite diplomatic efforts, the conflict continues as Israel strikes military targets in the Iranian cities of Kermanshah and Tabriz. Iran remains firm on not negotiating while under attack. The world watches with concern, as the conflict deeply impacts the Middle East, with calls for diplomatic resolutions growing stronger.