Iran reportedly communicated to mediators that they cannot engage in immediate ceasefire negotiations with Israel. Citing sources, Reuters reported on the 15th (local time) that Iran conveyed to mediators like Qatar and Oman that 'negotiations cannot occur during attacks, and talks can only begin after the response to Israel's preemptive strike ends.'
The conflict between the two countries escalated on the 13th when Israel launched a preemptive airstrike on Iran's nuclear and military facilities. In response, Iran began retaliatory attacks using drones and missiles, leading to ongoing armed clashes for three days.
Israel expanded its airstrike range to Iran's key energy facilities, while Iran continues to target major Israeli cities. On the fourth day of clashes, the 16th, the Israeli military announced via X (formerly Twitter), 'We are currently targeting surface-to-surface missile bases in central Iran.'
As the armed conflict between the two countries intensifies, the international community is increasingly concerned about the prolonged situation. The sixth nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran were eventually canceled. Iran expressed that Israel's airstrike 'would not have been possible without U.S. approval,' declaring that dialogue with the U.S. is meaningless.
Since President Donald Trump took office, Iran and the U.S. have been negotiating to limit nuclear development and lift economic sanctions. Amid ongoing disagreements over issues like the development of low-enriched uranium for civilian use, Israel's large-scale airstrike has led to a stalemate in negotiations.
Meanwhile, President Trump urged both countries to engage in dialogue, saying 'now is the time to negotiate,' but also remarked that 'sometimes countries need to fight first to resolve issues.' He also expressed support for Israel's defense against Iran's retaliatory airstrikes.