As tensions between Israel and Iran continued to rise for a third straight day, Iran has categorically ruled out any diplomatic talks under continued military pressure, a source familiar with the mediation process has said. In an exclusive interview with Agence France-Presse, the official said Iranian officials told Qatar and Oman both serving as mediators that Tehran would “seriously consider” talks only after it finishes responding to Israeli attacks.
“Iran made it clear that there will be no negotiations while it is under fire,” replied the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the delicacy of the talks. The official also dismissed as “inaccurate” reports that Iran had asked Qatar and Oman to approach the US for a ceasefire or nuclear talks.
A scheduled sixth round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran to be held on Sunday in Muscat was canceled, Oman confirmed. The nuclear talks had resumed in April but are now in doubt as tensions heat up. US President Donald Trump has already threatened military action if diplomatic efforts fail.
In the meantime, Israel unleashed a fresh barrage of airstrikes throughout Iran on Sunday, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised to exact a “heavy price” from Tehran for attacks that claimed the lives of Israeli civilians. Iranian state media indicated that the number of deaths caused by Israeli raids had risen to 224, with 90 percent of the victims being civilians. At least 10 Israelis were also killed in Iranian retaliatory attacks.
Russia retaliated by taking its citizens out of Iran and closing down its Tehran consulate operations. It also instructed airlines to steer clear of the airspace of Iran, Israel, Jordan, and Iraq until June 26. Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced Israel’s actions and issued a warning of a “dangerous escalation” in the region.
The European Union is calling an emergency virtual session of its foreign ministers on Tuesday to coordinate diplomatic responses and to stave off further escalation of the crisis.
