As Israel intensified its assault on Iranian military and nuclear targets, Tehran declared on Friday that it will not reenter nuclear negotiations while under fire—leaving diplomatic channels in limbo and raising pressure on the U.S. to take a more active role in the conflict.

Iran Draws a Red Line: No Talks Under Fire

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi firmly rejected negotiations with Washington “until Israeli aggression stops,” even as he prepared to meet European diplomats in Geneva. A senior Iranian official clarified to Reuters that Tehran is open to limits on uranium enrichment—but only if Israel halts its airstrikes.

“Any proposal for zero enrichment will be rejected, especially now under Israel’s strikes,” the official said.

Israel, which began its offensive a week ago, claims Iran is on the brink of acquiring nuclear weapons—a charge Iran denies, insisting its nuclear program is purely civilian.

Trump Considers U.S. Military Role

President Donald Trump, whose administration is closely monitoring the escalation, is expected to decide within two weeks whether the U.S. will intervene militarily to support Israel or pursue another diplomatic effort to contain the crisis.

“The White House is considering all options, including targeted support,” a senior administration official said. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff has reportedly been in discreet contact with Iranian representatives to explore backchannel dialogue.

The possibility of direct American involvement is seen by many as a potential game-changer—either deterring further Iranian retaliation or triggering broader conflict in the region.

Europe’s Diplomatic Push Stalls Amid Firepower

European foreign ministers from France, Germany, and the EU are attempting to salvage diplomatic engagement in Geneva. Their aim: secure assurances from Iran that it won’t weaponize its nuclear program.

But with Israeli bombs falling on Tehran’s outskirts and Iran launching missiles at Israeli cities like Beersheba, diplomatic momentum is all but paralyzed.

“The Middle East is at its most combustible point in years,” one European diplomat said. “And if the U.S. steps in militarily, the situation could either stabilize fast—or spiral.”

Human Cost and Regional Ramifications

Israeli strikes have killed at least 639 people in Iran, including senior military officials and nuclear scientists, according to U.S.-based human rights monitors. In Israel, 24 civilians have died in Iranian retaliatory missile attacks.

Meanwhile, Israel’s Defense Minister has ordered attacks on “symbols of the regime” in Tehran, aiming to weaken Iran’s leadership structure. Iran has also reported the arrest of a suspected Mossad agent.

As both sides escalate, regional players like Hezbollah are signaling possible involvement, increasing the risk of a wider war.