Iranian military official Mohsen Rezaei declared on state television that the country's nuclear resources have been safely relocated after Israeli assaults on key sites. This statement came amid heightened tensions in the region, as the United States, led by President Donald Trump, holds back on further military escalation, providing a fortnight for potential diplomatic talks with Tehran.
The Iranian response follows a series of missile strikes by Israeli forces targeting nuclear facilities, including Natanz, Isfahan, Khandab, and Arak, as part of an operation to undermine Iran's nuclear capabilities. The strategic shift to diplomacy was announced by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, citing a chance for imminent discussions with Iran. This development occurs as international negotiations kick off in Geneva, with representatives from Britain, France, Germany, and Iran's foreign minister engaging in critical talks.
The escalation of conflict saw an Iranian ballistic missile strike on Soroka Hospital in Beersheba, causing significant damage and injuries to 71 individuals. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation, and Defense Minister Israel Katz harshly criticized Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Despite the ongoing aerial campaign by Israel, Trump's decision to pause military operations seems in line with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's call for de-escalation.
The crisis has drawn mixed reactions from global leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron has criticized Israel's actions and urged for peace, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed support for Israel. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy have reinforced the message of de-escalation in Washington.
Trump's two-week deadline reflects a similar strategy previously applied to negotiations with Russia over Ukraine, aiming to achieve results through diplomatic channels. Reports from The Daily Mail indicate that Trump has approved detailed military plans targeting Iran's nuclear facilities but remains open to a peaceful resolution, particularly concerning the Fordow plant's operations.
Within this complex geopolitical landscape, the potential for escalated conflict or a diplomatic breakthrough hangs in the balance. The outcome of the Geneva talks, coupled with the actions of the U.S. and its allies, will be critical in shaping future peace and stability in the region.
