Iran hardens stance as Khamenei dismisses peace efforts amid escalating war
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has rejected proposals aimed at reducing tensions with the United States, asserting that it is “not the time for peace” and that both the US and Israel must be defeated.
Rejects ceasefire proposals
According to a senior Iranian official cited by Reuters, proposals for de-escalation and a possible ceasefire were conveyed to Tehran through intermediary countries. However, Khamenei adopted a hardline stance in his first major foreign policy deliberations.
He reportedly insisted that Iran would not consider peace efforts unless its adversaries are first forced into defeat.
‘Tough and serious’ stance
The official described the Supreme Leader’s position as “very tough and serious,” particularly on the issue of retaliation against the US and Israel. It remains unclear whether Khamenei attended the meeting in person.
The development underscores Iran’s increasingly aggressive posture as the conflict enters its third week, with no signs of de-escalation.
Israeli strikes target Iranian leadership
Amid the escalating conflict, Israel claimed it had killed senior Iranian figures, including security chief Ali Larijani and Basij force commander Gholam Reza Soleimani, in targeted strikes.
While Iran has not confirmed these claims, the strikes signal a deepening military confrontation between the two sides.
Retaliation and regional escalation
Iran has continued retaliatory missile and drone attacks across the region, including strikes targeting energy infrastructure in Gulf countries.
The conflict has disrupted critical oil routes and heightened fears of a broader regional war, with tensions at some of their highest levels in recent years.
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