ISTANBUL
It is “unjustifiable” to continue indirect talks between Tehran and Washington while Israel’s violent actions persist, the Iranian foreign minister told the EU’s foreign policy chief over the phone, state news agency IRNA reported.
Abbas Araqchi said Israel’s attacks on Iran are a “result of direct US support,” and that “continuing negotiations between Iran and the US in a situation where the Zionist regime’s savagery continues is unjustifiable.”
“Iran has given a decisive response to the Zionist regime’s aggressions to protect its national sovereignty, people, and security, and is resolved to use its legitimate right to take countermeasures,” he added.
Israel began strikes on Iranian cities, military sites and nuclear facilities early Friday and continued the operation for a second day on Saturday. Iran launched retaliatory attacks on Friday night.
A sixth round of indirect talks between the US and Iran, mediated by Oman, was scheduled for Sunday. It was not clear if the talks meant for a new deal on Tehran’s nuclear program will proceed after Israeli strikes.
The Iranian foreign minister urged the EU and the permanent members of the UN Security Council to take a “responsible stance” in condemning Israeli assaults and holding it accountable.
Araqchi said the recent “anti-Iran resolution by the IAEA” served as both a pretext and a justification for Israel’s hostile actions.
Expressing regret and concern over the escalation of tensions in the region, Kaja Kallas, for her part, underlined the EU’s readiness to support diplomacy.
She underlined the EU’s willingness to support diplomatic initiatives within the Security Council and other international platforms aimed at de-escalating the situation and restoring peace and security.
