Iran has urgently signaled a desire to end hostilities and return to nuclear negotiations amid escalating violence with Israel.

Tehran has reportedly sent messages via intermediaries—including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman—requesting international intervention to persuade Israel and the United States to support an immediate ceasefire.

As air raids devastate Tehran, thousands of Iranians have fled their homes, creating massive traffic jams and fuel shortages. Iranian authorities reported at least 224 victims have been killed since Israeli attacks began on Friday, including numerous civilians, women and children, prompting widespread fear and anger among residents.

Israel, meanwhile, has warned Tehran residents to evacuate certain areas, promising continued strikes aimed at crippling Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel now “controls the skies over Tehran,” emphasising intentions to weaken Iran’s nuclear program significantly.

But amid this spiraling violence, Iranian civilians bear the brunt of the conflict. Many describe feeling trapped, anxious, and exhausted, with little clarity about which areas might be targeted next.

Iranian authorities have told regional intermediaries they would swiftly resume nuclear negotiations if hostilities ceased, provided the U.S. does not directly join Israeli military action. Tehran also warned that without diplomatic efforts, it might accelerate its nuclear activities, potentially expanding the conflict further.

Despite Iran’s appeals for negotiations, Israel has indicated it plans to continue its bombing campaign, aiming to significantly degrade Iranian nuclear and missile capabilities. The international community, including Arab states and France, has called urgently for diplomacy, fearing wider regional instability and broader humanitarian suffering.

For now, the focus remains on whether diplomatic efforts can halt the violence before the conflict escalates further...