Israel expects no major escalation from Iran after US strikes - Times of Israel

Iran is a threat to international security and must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, Canada said on Sunday, urging all sides to de-escalate and resume negotiations after overnight US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.

“Canada has been consistent and clear that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons as they are a threat to international security,” the Canadian foreign ministry said on X. “We urge parties to return to the negotiating table and reach a resolution to this crisis.”

British, German and French leaders have urged Iran not to further destabilize the region following US strikes, according to a joint statement issued Sunday.

“We call upon Iran to engage in negotiations leading to an agreement that addresses all concerns associated with its nuclear program,” UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and French President Emmanuel Macron said.

“We stand ready to contribute to that goal in coordination with all parties. We urge Iran not to take any further action that could destabilize the region.”

US strikes on Iran’s Fordow nuclear site did not destroy the facility but severely damaged it, the New York Times reported citing unnamed US and Israeli officials.

It appeared Iran had moved equipment, including uranium, from the site, the report cited the officials as saying.

Even twelve bunker-busting bombs could not destroy the site, an unnamed senior US official said.

Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on Sunday that Iran has crossed red lines regarding its nuclear program and must return to negotiations.

Preventing Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons is a legitimate goal, Wadephul told German public broadcaster ARD, adding that European countries are ready to support possible talks between Iran and the United States.

Ali Shamkhani, a senior advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, said Sunday that US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities would not derail the country’s nuclear capabilities, adding that Iran retains the capacity and political resolve to respond.

“Even if nuclear sites are destroyed, the game isn’t over... enriched materials, indigenous knowledge, and political will remain,” Shamkhani said on X. “The initiative is now with the side that plays smart, avoids blind strikes. Surprises will continue!”