By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a dramatic turn of events that threatens to plunge the Middle East into further instability, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that ongoing diplomatic negotiations between Iran and the United States were abruptly sabotaged by an Israeli military strike. The Iranian government now finds itself caught between calls for restraint and the reality of escalating tensions following U.S.-linked military actions.
Speaking to reporters late Sunday, Araghchi revealed that Iran was in the "midst of sensitive diplomatic talks" with Washington when Israeli forces allegedly targeted strategic locations, potentially including parts of Iran’s controversial nuclear infrastructure.
> "We were in the midst of diplomatic talks with the US when the Israelis blew it up," Araghchi stated, visibly agitated.
While refraining from specifying the exact nature of the Israeli assault, Iranian officials are reportedly assessing the extent of damage to their nuclear facilities, which could have significant implications for future negotiations under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal.
Araghchi emphasized that while Iran is not currently engaging in any formal negotiations, "the doors to diplomacy should remain open in principle." However, he clarified that any continuation of nuclear talks would depend on the outcome of damage assessments from the U.S. strikes.
Escalation or Resolution?
The Iranian diplomat’s comments come amid rising tensions following a series of reported U.S. drone and missile attacks on Iranian-linked positions. Iran says it has “no choice but to respond” to what it calls acts of aggression, and warned of severe consequences should its sovereignty or strategic assets be further endangered.
In a sign that Tehran may be seeking to rally international support, Araghchi also revealed plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on June 23, potentially to solidify regional alliances and warn against further escalation.
Israel’s Calculated Gamble?
Analysts say Israel’s suspected role in the attack is part of a long-standing strategy to derail any possibility of a U.S.-Iran rapprochement. With its national security interests deeply tied to preventing a nuclear-capable Iran, Tel Aviv has historically viewed any U.S.-Iran dialogue with deep skepticism.
If confirmed, this latest action would represent a high-stakes gamble by the Israeli government, risking a broader regional conflict in an already volatile theatre.
What's Next?
The coming days will prove pivotal. Iran's potential response, the U.S. administration’s official stance, and the outcome of Araghchi’s Moscow visit may well shape the next phase of geopolitical alignment across the Middle East.
As the world watches, the question remains: Will diplomacy survive the wreckage of war, or are we heading toward a full-scale confrontation?
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International