European leaders set to meet Iran in Geneva for urgent nuclear talks

European foreign ministers are set to meet Iran’s top diplomat in Geneva for urgent nuclear talks amid growing fears that the Israel-Iran conflict could spiral into a broader regional war.

The foreign ministers of Germany, France, and Britain will hold high-stakes nuclear talks with Iran’s foreign minister in Geneva on Friday, a German diplomatic source told Reuters.

Before the joint session, the ministers will meet with European Union Freign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas at Germany’s permanent mission to the United Nations in Switzerland's city.

The aim of the talks between Iran and the Europeans, which the German source said are taking place in coordination with the United States, is to persuade the Iranian side to firmly guarantee that it will use its nuclear programme solely for civilian purposes.

This diplomatic push follows a sharp escalation in the Middle East, where Israel launched large-scale strikes on Iran last week, prompting missile retaliation from Tehran. While U.S. President Donald Trump has not confirmed whether Washington will join the military campaign, his silence has heightened global anxiety over a potential regional conflict.

The Geneva talks are expected to continue with structured technical discussions at the expert level.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has voiced support for Israel’s actions, urging Iran to de-escalate or face further consequences—remarks that angered Tehran. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also urged Iran to commit to dialogue, saying, "It's never too late to come to the negotiating table."

Israel has said its goal is to eliminate Tehran's ability to develop a nuclear weapon. Iran denies that its nuclear programme is for military purposes.

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