Media: Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei rejects ceasefire proposals

Mojtaba Khamenei has rejected proposals to reduce tensions or agree to a ceasefire with the United States that were conveyed to Iran through two intermediary countries, a senior Iranian official said on Tuesday, March 17.

According to the official, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity, Khamenei’s position in his first foreign policy session was “very tough and serious,” emphasising a stance of retaliation against both the United States and Israel. The official did not clarify whether Khamenei personally attended the session.

The conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran is now in its third week, with at least 2,000 people reported killed and no clear end in sight. The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed, as US allies have declined requests from Donald Trump to help reopen the critical route, contributing to rising energy prices and increasing global inflation concerns.

The senior official said Khamenei had stated that it was not “the right time for peace until the United States and Israel are brought to their knees, accept defeat, and pay compensation.”

Separately, three sources told Reuters on March 14 that the Trump administration had rejected attempts by Middle Eastern allies to initiate diplomatic negotiations aimed at ending the war.

By Tamilla Hasanova