Iran’s deputy foreign minister has cautioned that direct US involvement in Israeli airstrikes could escalate the conflict into “hell for the whole region.” Addressing the BBC, he stressed that the war is not America’s to join, warning that such action would brand President Trump as a leader who entered an unwanted war.
Saeed Khatibzadeh said U.S. participation would entangle it in a long, messy conflict, prolong violence and hamper diplomatic efforts. His remarks followed an incident where an Iranian missile hit near Israel’s Soroka Hospital, injuring dozens. Iran said its target was a nearby military installation.
At the same time, Israeli forces reportedly struck Iran’s nuclear facilities at Arak and Natanz.
Tehran refrained from confirming casualties, but emphasized its attacks were a form of “self-defence” under international law. Khatibzadeh claimed that diplomacy had been underway and faulted Israel for disrupting negotiations targeting renewed nuclear talks.
He implied that a diplomatic breakthrough was nearly reached prior to the June 13 Israeli strikes. He also dismissed U.S. accusations that Iran was on the verge of weaponizing uranium, calling them baseless.
Iranian and U.S. envoys have engaged in phone discussions aimed at de-escalation. However, Iran insists no negotiations will resume unless Israel halts its military strikes.
Iran’s nuclear enrichment, reaching purity levels approaching weapons grade, has increased scrutiny from the International Atomic Energy Agency. Yet Iranian officials insist its nuclear programme is peaceful.
In parallel, European foreign ministers are planning talks in Geneva on a diplomatic response, signaling growing international pressure for peaceful resolution of the conflict.
