• Israel and Iran are engaged in an escalating air conflict, now entering its second week.
• Over 639 Iranians have reportedly been killed as Israeli strikes target military and nuclear sites.
• European nations are pushing for diplomatic talks to de-escalate the ongoing hostilities.

As of June 20, the air war between Israel and Iran has escalated into its second week, fueled by Israel's initial air strike on June 13, which aimed at crippling Iran's nuclear weapons infrastructure under “Operation Rising Lion.” Following the air strikes, Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks targeting various locations within Israel, claiming its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

Reports indicate that Israeli air strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 639 people in Iran, comprising military officials and nuclear scientists, while Israel has confirmed the deaths of two dozen civilians due to Iranian missile attacks, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency and TRT Global.

The conflict has seen significant military engagement, with Israel targeting military factories and nuclear facilities across numerous provinces in Iran. In response, Iran has struck Israeli cities, damaging critical infrastructure, including hospitals, which escalates allegations of violations of international humanitarian law, as noted by Al Jazeera.

With ongoing hostilities, European diplomats are seeking a diplomatic pathway. A meeting is planned in Geneva among the foreign ministers of Britain, France, and Germany with Iran's foreign minister to discuss de-escalation tactics. Both Iranian leaders and officials have emphasized that any negotiations will be contingent upon halting Israeli strikes, highlighting a complicated diplomatic landscape, as reported by Reuters, Channel News Asia, and TRT Global.

While diplomatic channels are being explored, tensions remain high as U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened military action and indicated a decision regarding potential U.S. involvement would be made within two weeks, during which European officials are advocating for renewed nuclear negotiations with Iran, according to Al Jazeera.