Iran to Hold Key Talks with UK, France, Germany in Geneva Amid Escalating Tensions with Israel

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Tehran will hold high-stakes diplomatic talks with the United Kingdom, France, and Germany in Geneva on Friday, as tensions with Israel intensify and U.S. President Donald Trump considers direct involvement.

“We will meet with the European delegation in Geneva on Friday,” Araghchi said in a statement published by Iran’s state news agency IRNA.

European officials have confirmed the meeting, which will include French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. The goal: to de-escalate the conflict and revive diplomatic efforts.

European Push for Diplomacy

Earlier this week, the so-called E3 ministers and Kallas spoke with Araghchi to urge a return to negotiations. The upcoming meeting was scheduled at Iran’s request, reflecting a rare opportunity for dialogue.

French President Emmanuel Macron said his government is working closely with European partners to craft a diplomatic initiative aimed at halting the conflict and curbing Iran’s nuclear and ballistic capabilities.

Following talks with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi in Paris, Barrot reiterated Europe’s commitment:

“We are ready to take part in negotiations aimed at obtaining from Iran a lasting rollback of its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.”

Pressure Mounts Ahead of Trump’s Decision

The UK’s David Lammy will travel to Geneva after visiting Washington, where he met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and White House Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff.

“We are determined that Iran must never obtain a nuclear weapon,” Lammy said. “A window now exists—within the next two weeks—to achieve a diplomatic solution.”

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also emphasized the importance of renewed talks, asserting that diplomacy remains the best path to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The talks come as President Trump announced he will decide within two weeks whether to support Israel militarily in its campaign against Tehran—a move that could drastically alter the regional landscape.

With input from Al Jazeera