World leaders have intensified diplomatic pressure on Iran to return to negotiations aimed at ending escalating conflict in the Middle East, as fresh attacks threaten a fragile ceasefire and widen regional instability.
Diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran has remained stalled since the ceasefire, with planned talks reportedly disrupted on multiple occasions. Iran has also maintained its position that it will not relinquish control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.
European leaders led by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Tehran to return to negotiations, a position echoed by French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who warned against further destabilisation of the region.
Saudi Arabia also called for de-escalation, urging a political solution amid concerns over repeated attacks on its energy infrastructure.
Tensions further escalated after the United States claimed it had sunk several Iranian vessels in maritime operations, an allegation Tehran denied, accusing Washington of causing civilian casualties.
The UAE said it had been targeted by missiles and drones, describing the incident as a serious escalation. Iranian officials, however, denied any pre-planned attacks on energy facilities, insisting their actions were defensive and linked to maritime tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the crisis underscored the absence of a military solution, urging continued mediation efforts.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has promoted a maritime initiative aimed at securing shipping routes in the Gulf, though details of the plan remain unclear. Iranian officials have rejected US claims regarding maritime traffic through the Strait.
Oil prices surged following the renewed hostilities, reflecting market fears over disruptions to global energy supplies.
The broader regional conflict has also strained a separate ceasefire in Lebanon, where clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah have resumed, further complicating efforts to stabilise the Middle East.
