Iran calls for ceasefire as Israeli strikes escalate

Iran is seeking a ceasefire with Israel after five days of deadly aerial attacks, asking U.S. President Donald Trump to pressure Israel to halt its strikes in exchange for flexibility on nuclear negotiations. On Monday, Israel escalated its offensive, striking targets across Iran — including a missile strike on Iran’s state TV headquarters during a live broadcast, forcing a news anchor to flee the studio. Israel claimed the broadcaster was being used as a military communications hub. Iranian missiles had earlier struck Tel Aviv and Haifa, killing several people and injuring dozens. Israel launched the conflict with a surprise wave of attacks on Friday, wiping out senior Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists. Satellite imagery and U.N. inspectors have confirmed that at least two of Iran’s three uranium enrichment facilities have been put out of operation. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Iran’s largest plant suffered “extensive damage.” Iran denies pursuing a nuclear weapon, but Israel insists its campaign will continue until that risk is eliminated. Meanwhile, Trump left the G7 summit early on Monday, returning to Washington to convene his National Security Council. He has repeatedly said the air war could end if Iran agrees to strict limits on its nuclear program. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the U.S. had extended an offer for a ceasefire and fresh diplomatic talks. "There is an offer on the table. Now it is up to the parties to act," Macron said. In a social media post later in the day, Trump urged all civilians in Tehran to evacuate immediately, signalling that further strikes may be imminent.