As Israel intensifies its offensive on Iranian nuclear and military sites, European powers told Tehran during a summit in Geneva on Friday that the U.S. is open to direct nuclear talks—if Iran signals serious intent and hostilities ease.

U.S. Signals Willingness, Iran Stands Firm

Diplomats from the U.K., France, and Germany—known as the E3—met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, informing him that President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are open to negotiations. The U.S. message was delivered indirectly as Iran refuses to engage while Israeli airstrikes continue.

“There is no room for negotiations with the U.S. until Israeli aggression stops,” Araghchi said on Iranian state TV, even as backchannel contacts with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff reportedly continue.

A senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran could discuss limiting uranium enrichment—but not halting it—especially while under fire.

Trump Cautious Amid Escalation

Though Trump has previously vowed a hard line on Iran, he has delayed military action for two weeks, saying diplomacy may still succeed. French President Emmanuel Macron has shifted closer to Washington’s stance, now calling for “zero enrichment” in any new deal.

Secretary Rubio has been in touch with European officials, and France confirmed that Trump is ready for direct contact “at any time.”

Europe Tries to Avert Broader War

European leaders at the Geneva meeting stressed that the window for a diplomatic off-ramp is closing rapidly. “The Iranians can’t sit down with the Americans, but we can,” said one E3 diplomat, noting the urgency to prevent further escalation.

Concerns remain about Iran’s missile program, support for Russia in Ukraine, and the detention of European citizens—all likely bargaining points in any future deal.

No Breakthrough, But Diplomacy Persists

Despite no immediate outcome, European ministers believe engagement is critical to containing the nuclear crisis. “Even now, if they have something to say, we will listen,” Araghchi told reporters after the talks.

Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul summarized the stance: “We’re ready. Now it’s Iran’s move.”