Iran Seeks Gulf, European Mediation Amid Rising Israeli Strikes

Amid escalating Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, Iran has sought mediation from Oman, Qatar, and Cyprus to engage Washington and European nations in efforts to halt the conflict and revive nuclear negotiations. Saudi Arabia is also reportedly working behind the scenes to promote a ceasefire framework aimed at resuming talks. The U.S. maintains that only full Iranian acceptance of its proposal, including a complete halt to uranium enrichment, will end Israeli military operations, while Iran insists that talks are meaningless as long as Israeli attacks continue. French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Iran to promptly return to nuclear negotiations, warning of regional destabilization and calling for moderation to avoid escalation. Israel hopes Iran's rejection of the U.S. proposal will lead Washington to intensify military support for Israel. Iranian officials have called Israel's attacks a declaration of war and demanded accountability through international institutions, underscoring their intent to defend national sovereignty.