Break in talks between Iran and E3 ministers - reports

Break in talks between Iran and E3 ministers - reports

In a significant diplomatic move, European ministers from Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are set to meet with their Iranian counterpart, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, on Friday in Geneva. The meeting is aimed at reviving diplomatic efforts to address Iran’s nuclear program and the escalating conflict with Israel [1][2][3].

The meeting comes amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East, following Israel’s military campaign, codenamed “Operation Rising Lion,” which targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities and missile infrastructure on June 12. Iran responded with missile strikes on Israeli targets, further escalating the conflict [1][2].

European officials, collectively known as the E3, are hoping to chart a path back to negotiations. The meeting was arranged after a rare phone call with Iran’s lead negotiator Abbas Araghchi, where European officials emphasized the urgency of de-escalation and a return to talks. European diplomats stress that they can engage with Iran in ways the United States currently cannot, aiming to press Iran on the nuclear issue and other concerns such as ballistic missile development and the detention of European citizens [1].

The European initiative is part of a broader diplomatic effort to prevent further escalation and address international concerns about Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The talks are taking place in coordination with the United States, which has not yet decided whether to join Israel’s military campaign [2][3].

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently found Iran in breach of its nuclear non-proliferation obligations, further complicating the diplomatic landscape. European powers have left open the possibility of escalating the matter to the United Nations Security Council if no diplomatic progress is made this summer [1].

Despite low expectations for a breakthrough in Geneva, European officials emphasize the importance of keeping diplomatic channels open. Once the fighting stops, the nuclear issue will remain, and European nations will have to face it [1].

References:
[1] https://www.i24news.tv/en/news/israel/defense/artc-european-ministers-meet-iran-to-revive-nuclear-talks
[2] https://www.turkiyetoday.com/region/european-ministers-to-hold-nuclear-talks-with-iran-20-june-in-geneva-report-3203105
[3] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/20/iran-europe-set-for-first-talks-since-israel-launched-attacks-on-tehran