The United States and Iran have both declined negotiations to cease the ongoing war, with Tehran cautioning against external interference following President Donald Trump’s call for international warship support to safeguard oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.
Violent clashes persist on the ground between conflicting factions, resulting in numerous casualties.
During an interview on CBS’s “Face the Nation,” Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi affirmed Iran’s lack of interest in engaging in talks with the US, countering Trump’s assertion that Iran seeks a resolution to the conflict.
Araqchi stated, “We have never requested a ceasefire or negotiations. We are prepared to defend ourselves as necessary.”
He further emphasized, “We are resolute and capable. Our actions are solely for the protection of our citizens. We find no justification for engaging in dialogue with the Americans, as we were in discussions with them when they initiated hostilities.”
Trump indicated on Saturday that Iran desires a deal but did not disclose further details, mentioning the possibility of additional strikes on Kharg Island, an oil hub in Iran.
Trump stated to NBC News, “Iran is eager for a deal, but I am not satisfied with the current terms.”
Despite crude oil prices hovering around $100 per barrel, US officials remain optimistic about a swift resolution to the conflict.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright remarked on ABC’s “This Week” program that the conflict could conclude in the coming weeks, leading to a subsequent increase in supplies and a drop in prices.
Earlier, the Iranian Foreign Minister expressed willingness to negotiate the passage of specific oil tankers through the crucial Strait of Hormuz export route with interested nations.
Iran affirmed that the strait, responsible for a significant portion of global oil and gas exports, remains open for international navigation except for vessels from the US, Israel, and their allies.
Furthermore, Iran accused its Arab neighbors of harboring US bases used to launch attacks, while dismissing attempts by Middle Eastern allies to initiate discussions with the US.
In response, Trump urged countries like China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to deploy warships to safeguard tankers while US military operations target various Iranian sites.
Despite Trump’s plea, the mentioned countries responded cautiously to the proposal, with Iran cautioning against actions leading to conflict escalation.
Notably, global oil prices have surged due to disruptions in the vital sea passage caused by Iran’s actions, which have targeted energy and shipping infrastructure in neighboring Gulf states.
As tensions persist, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards vowed to target Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky alleged that Russia was supplying Iran with drones for use against the US and Israel.
Israel approved a substantial emergency budget for military acquisitions, as intense rhetoric continues from all involved parties.
Despite the ongoing conflict, residents of Tehran experienced a semblance of normalcy, with increased traffic, reopened businesses, and typical daily activities. However, the toll of the war includes numerous casualties and massive displacement, as reported by various sources.
