Iran Dismisses European Call to Refrain from Retaliation Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

TEHRAN, Iran — Iran has rejected a request from three European countries to refrain from retaliatory attacks that could further escalate tensions in the Middle East. The call, made by French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, aimed to support ongoing mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States to end the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The European leaders not only called for an end to hostilities but also demanded the return of hostages held by Hamas and the unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid. However, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told Prime Minister Keir Starmer that retaliation is a nation's right and essential to deter future aggression. Iran sternly criticized the West's silence on the violence in Gaza and stated it would not seek permission for its defensive actions.

Meanwhile, Israeli strikes continue to cause significant casualties in Gaza, further complicating the prospect of a peaceful resolution. Palestinian authorities report high civilian casualties, escalating fears of a wider regional conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)