Adedokun Waliyu 
World leaders have increased pressure on Iran to return to diplomacy as tensions rise and a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East risks collapse.
The renewed push for talks follows escalating clashes between United States and Iran around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. The United Arab Emirates also reported being targeted by Iranian missile and drone attacks for the first time since the ceasefire began nearly a month ago.
Diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran have stalled, with planned talks failing to take place. Iran has insisted it will not give up control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes.
European leaders, including Friedrich Merz, Emmanuel Macron, and Keir Starmer, have urged Iran to return to negotiations and avoid further escalation. Saudi Arabia also called for de-escalation and a political solution.
The United States said its forces had sunk several Iranian vessels, though Iran denied losing any combat ships and accused Washington of causing civilian casualties.
The UAE described recent strikes as a “dangerous escalation,” reporting that missiles and drones targeted its territory, including an energy facility in Fujairah, where injuries were recorded. Some missiles were intercepted, while others fell into the sea.
Iran acknowledged tensions but suggested the incidents were linked to US military actions in the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the crisis has no military solution and emphasised the need for diplomacy.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has pushed for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and announced an initiative aimed at escorting neutral ships through the area. However, details of the plan remain unclear, and Iran has disputed claims that vessels have safely passed through the strait.
The ongoing conflict has disrupted global oil supply routes, causing energy prices to rise and adding economic pressure worldwide.
In Lebanon, a separate ceasefire involving Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah is also under strain, with renewed clashes reported in the south. Israeli military operations in the area have resulted in significant casualties.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has called for a security agreement and an end to hostilities before any potential talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as efforts continue to stabilise the region.
