WASHINGTON/DUBAI/TEL AVIV: President Donald Trump’s administration has rejected efforts by Middle Eastern allies to start diplomatic negotiations aimed at ending the Iran war that started two weeks ago. Arab News reported, citing three sources familiar with the efforts, that these sources were the ones who disclosed this information.
Iran Rejects Ceasefire; Both Sides Dig In for Extended Conflict: For its part, Iran has dismissed the possibility of any ceasefire until US and Israeli strikes come to an end, according to senior Iranian sources. The lack of interest in diplomacy from both Washington and Tehran suggests that both nations are preparing for a long-term conflict, despite rising civilian casualties, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and soaring global oil prices.
Strikes on Oil Hubs; Iran Vows to Keep Strait of Hormuz Closed: US strikes on Kharg Island, Iran’s primary oil export hub, on Friday night underscored Trump’s commitment to his military campaign. Meanwhile, Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz shut and threatened to escalate attacks on neighboring countries. The war has already claimed over 2,000 lives and caused the most significant disruption to the global oil supply in history.
Mediation Efforts Fail; Trump Presses Ahead with Military Mission: Oman, which previously mediated talks, has repeatedly tried to open lines of communication, but the White House has shown no interest. A senior official confirmed that Trump is focused on weakening Tehran’s military capabilities and is not interested in talks at this moment. Although Trump previously suggested that Iran’s leadership might want to negotiate, he maintains that “Operation Epic Fury” will continue unabated for now.
Iran Hardens Stance; Moves Away from Diplomacy: Tehran has rejected ceasefire efforts unless the US and Israel halt airstrikes and meet demands for permanent cessation and compensation. While Egypt has also attempted to reopen communications, little progress has been made. Sources indicate that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) believes losing control of the Strait of Hormuz equals losing the war, leading them to flatly reject any diplomatic negotiations at this stage. (Arab News)
For more details: Navamalayalam.com