By TEHRAN, Iran – Iran has rejected a plea from three European countries urging it to refrain from carrying out any retaliatory attacks that could further intensify regional tensions. Iran labeled the request, made by the leaders of Britain, France, and Germany, as an “excessive request.”
In a joint statement issued on Monday, the European leaders called on Iran and its allies to avoid any retaliation following the killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last month. Iran has blamed Israel for the assassination, further straining an already volatile situation.
The European leaders also voiced support for ongoing mediation efforts led by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States to negotiate an end to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Talks are expected to resume on Thursday, focusing on the release of hostages held by Hamas and ensuring the “unfettered” delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Mediators have been working for months to secure a three-phase plan aimed at de-escalating the conflict. The proposed plan would see Hamas releasing the remaining hostages captured during the October 7 attack, in exchange for Israel releasing Palestinians imprisoned in Israeli jails. The plan also includes a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
As the conflict drags on, the humanitarian toll continues to rise. After more than 10 months of intense fighting, the death toll among Palestinians in Gaza is nearing 40,000, according to the Health Ministry there.
The situation remains tense as the international community watches closely, with many fearing that any further escalation could have severe consequences for the entire region.
AP
