Tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel escalated on Saturday after Iran launched attacks on American bases in the region, describing them as acts of “self-defence.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke live on NBC News as internet access remained down for most of the country. He said Iran “may have lost one or two commanders” but that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is “alive” as far as he knows.
Araghchi stressed Iran’s willingness to de-escalate and enter negotiations, provided the US and Israel stop their attacks. “If the Americans want to talk to us, they know how they can contact me,” he said, noting communications are limited.
Reports suggest Iran’s Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour may have been killed in Israeli strikes, though Iranian media have denied the deaths of senior officials, including the president and army commander-in-chief.
Saudi Arabia said Iran attacked its capital Riyadh and the eastern region. The Saudi Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes and said it would not allow its airspace to be used against Iran.
Germany, France and Britain condemned Iran’s attacks on regional countries and called for a return to negotiations. President Emmanuel Macron, Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Prime Minister Keir Starmer said civilians must be protected and the Iranian people should determine their future.
U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk also condemned all strikes and warned that failure to negotiate risks a wider conflict and further civilian deaths across the Middle East.
In the United States, members of Congress called for votes on a war powers resolution. Most calls came from Democrats, but Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky said lawmakers should formally record their positions.
Meanwhile, in London, crowds gathered outside the Iranian embassy, carrying images of Reza Pahlavi and chanting slogans. Some drank homemade Aragh Sagi while others worried about family they had not been able to contact since yesterday evening.