Khamenei Rejects Ceasefire, Demands US-Israel “Admit Defeat”
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei rejected a proposal to ease tensions or reach a ceasefire with the United States that was conveyed to Tehran through two intermediaries, according to a senior Iranian official on Tuesday (March 17). Khamenei's stance was described as "very tough and serious" in his first foreign policy session, without specifying whether he was present in person.
The official said Khamenei believes it is not "the right time for peace" until the United States and Israel "bend to their knees, accept defeat, and pay compensation." The statement underscored Tehran's hard line as the US-Israel war in Iran enters its third week and shows no signs of ending soon.
The conflict, which has killed at least 2,000 people, also continues to pressure energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed, while several US allies have rejected US President Donald Trump's request to help reopen the strategic waterway. This has contributed to high energy prices and heightened inflation concerns.
Earlier, three sources told Reuters on March 14 that the Trump administration was rebuffing efforts by Middle East allies to initiate diplomatic negotiations to end the Iran war, adding to indications that the space for de-escalation remains limited in the near term.
Source: Newsmaker.id
