Tensions escalate as Abbas Araghchi delivers a strong warning to the U.S. and Israel, vowing retaliation while engaging in high-level talks with Wang Yi. China has called for an end to “bullying” and urged diplomacy, positioning itself as a stabilizing force amid the crisis. Meanwhile, reported strikes on Iranian gas facilities in Isfahan and near Khorramshahr highlight intensifying military pressure despite Donald Trump claiming ongoing talks—claims Tehran has firmly denied. As diplomacy and conflict collide, the Middle East faces rising uncertainty and geopolitical risk.