Iran "will bear responsibility" for any attacks against Israel which "would further escalate regional tensions" and jeopardize the chance of a cease-fire and hostage-release deal, the leaders of the UK, France, and Germany warned in a joint statement today, according to Politico. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called Monday "on Iran and its allies to refrain from attacks," emphasizing their agreement with mediators the US, Egypt, and Qatar that there "can be no further delay" in resuming negotiations between Israel and Hamas on a cease-fire and hostage release.
The statement comes amid heightened concerns of an imminent Iranian attack on Israel. Politico reports that, according to Axios, Israeli intelligence believes such an attack is likely within days. This potential retaliation is linked to the recent assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, an action widely attributed to Israel. The escalating tensions follow the October 7 attack by Hamas, which resulted in 1,200 deaths in Israel and the taking of approximately 250 hostages.
Efforts to negotiate a cease-fire and secure the release of hostages face additional challenges. Hamas has expressed doubt about its participation in a meeting scheduled for Thursday, which was called by mediators to continue negotiations. Israel, however, has stated its intention to send a team of negotiators to the meeting.
The European leaders' statement underscores the international community's growing concern over the potential for further regional destabilization. By warning Iran of its responsibility for any attacks, they aim to prevent an escalation that could derail ongoing peace efforts and humanitarian initiatives in the region.
