Iran's New Supreme Leader Rejects US De-escalation Offers Amid Ongoing Conflict

Tehran. Iran's new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has rejected proposals to de-escalate tensions or establish a ceasefire with the United States. According to a senior Iranian official speaking to Reuters, Khamenei explicitly turned down the proposals that were conveyed to Tehran through two intermediary nations.

According to the official, Khamenei's stance in his first foreign policy meeting was firm and retaliatory. He reportedly insisted on taking revenge against the US and Israel, although it was not specified whether he was physically present at the meeting.

The war between Iran and Israel has entered its third week. It is estimated that at least 2,000 people have died in the bilateral attacks so far. However, there are no signs of the war ending. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz, a critically important maritime route for the world, remains largely shut down. This has increased concerns about the impact on energy supply, leading to rising global oil prices and inflation.

Stating that it is not a time for peace, the Iranian Supreme Leader put forward conditions that the US and Israel must accept defeat and pay compensation. On the other hand, the Donald Trump administration has reportedly rejected diplomatic initiatives put forward by hawkish nations in West Asia.

This further weakens the possibility of negotiations. According to analysts, the rigid stance of both sides signals a prolonged conflict. This is expected to have a serious impact not only on the Middle East but also on the global economy, energy supply, and security situation.