Iran has rejected a call by European countries to abstain from any retaliatory actions that would further exacerbate regional tensions.

In a joint statement, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer endorsed efforts by mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States to find a resolution to end the Israel-Hamas conflict. They also urged Iran and its allies to avoid escalating tensions following the killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in late July.

Mediators have been working on a three-phase plan where Hamas would release hostages captured in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, and Israel would withdraw from Gaza. Talks are scheduled to resume soon.

The death toll in Gaza from the conflict is nearing 40,000, according to the Health Ministry.

Iran’s president considers retaliation against Israel for the killing of Hamas official Ismail Haniyeh a nation’s right, discouraging future aggression.

Israeli strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 16 Palestinians, including women and children, further escalating the conflict.

As the situation continues to unfold, tensions remain high in the region, with no clear end in sight to the violence and suffering.