Amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Whitkoff, has reportedly held multiple phone calls with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. According to a British news agency, the calls aimed to seek a diplomatic resolution. Three regional diplomats confirmed the contacts, stating that the U.S. initiated the first conversation after the conflict began.
Despite the outreach, Araghchi has refused to return to negotiations until Israeli attacks stop. He stated Iran could show flexibility on the nuclear issue if the U.S. pressures Israel to end the war. Regional diplomats also revealed that Washington recently proposed forming a consortium to enrich uranium outside Iran. However, Tehran rejected the offer, viewing it as insufficient.
Global diplomatic efforts have intensified to stop further escalation. The Prime Minister of the UK, Sir Keir Starmer, urged U.S. President Donald Trump to remain calm and avoid further confrontation. At the same time, foreign ministers from Germany, France, and the UK are scheduled to meet Araghchi in Geneva for talks. Trump has supported the meeting and said a deal with Iran is still possible.
Meanwhile, Araghchi has confirmed his participation in tomorrow’s Geneva meeting. Additionally, the UN Security Council will hold an emergency session to discuss the growing tensions. The conflict’s gravity has prompted diplomatic momentum across regions, with hopes for a ceasefire rising.
Russia and China have also stepped in, with Presidents Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping speaking via phone. Both leaders condemned Israel’s ongoing attacks and called for a diplomatic solution. President Putin stated he is in contact with both Israel and President Trump to help defuse the crisis. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation has also scheduled an urgent summit in Istanbul this Saturday.