Egypt and several Gulf states have begun efforts to curb the escalation and revive U.S.-Iran talks, the Hezbollah-linked Lebanese paper Al-Akhbar reports, citing Cairo diplomatic sources.

The focus is pressuring Washington to keep Israel out of any strikes on Iran, over fears it would open new fronts. UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed cut short an Egypt visit to manage the crisis from Abu Dhabi.

Cairo has pledged immediate defensive and intelligence support to the Gulf to shield energy sites, oil tankers, and shipping from Iranian retaliation.