European Diplomacy Targets Iran Amid Rising Tensions

European foreign ministers convened with Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araqchi, on Friday, seeking a diplomatic path over Iran's nuclear program despite potential U.S. involvement in Israeli military strikes against the country. The discussion was organized by the E3 - Britain, France, and Germany - plus the EU's foreign policy chief, to re-engage diplomatically amidst growing tensions.

A European diplomat highlighted the urgency of addressing nuclear issues to prevent escalation, while also raising concerns about Iran's missile program and geopolitical alliances. The talks, held in Geneva, continued efforts from an initial 2013 agreement to curb Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for lifting sanctions.

Iranian official Araqchi insisted negotiations with the U.S. were off the table until Israeli hostilities ceased. Meanwhile, European powers, expressing frustration with U.S. strategies, stressed the necessity of committed talks. With a crucial two-week window cited by Britain's Foreign Secretary David Lammy, further diplomatic progress hinges on Iran's response.

(With inputs from agencies.)