US and European diplomats are racing against time to bring an end to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran within the next two weeks, as President Trump decides whether to involve the US in Israel’s offensive against Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with European foreign ministers in Geneva on Friday, where they discussed the possibility of a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
Araghchi stated that Iran is open to re-engaging in diplomacy and expressed readiness to meet again in the near future. However, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei remains the ultimate decision-maker, and it’s unclear whether the ongoing Israeli airstrikes will move him closer to a diplomatic solution.
US diplomats have been trying to persuade Iran to abandon its nuclear program, offering a deal that would allow Iran to have a civilian nuclear program if it agreed not to enrich uranium on its soil. However, Iranian leaders have shown little willingness to engage in substantive negotiations.
The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about the potential for regional instability and environmental fallout from military strikes on nuclear facilities. US and European diplomats are exploring options for securing nuclear sites and material, as well as discussing who would lead Iran next.
President Trump still maintains the ability to launch a strike if diplomacy fails, but US intelligence assessments suggest that Khamenei has not ordered the resumption of the nuclear weapons program. The situation remains tense, with both sides waiting for the other to make the next move.
As the clock ticks down, diplomats are holding out hope that a last-minute diplomatic effort can bring an end to the conflict and prevent further escalation.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/diplomacy-de-escalate-israel-iran-conflict