US President Donald Trump’s administration has rejected attempts by Middle Eastern allies to start diplomatic talks aimed at ending the war with Iran, sources familiar with the process said on March 14, according to Reuters.
The armed clashes began two weeks ago with large-scale airstrikes by the United States and Israel, and American attacks on Iraq’s oil export center further aggravated the conflict.
Iran has ruled out a ceasefire pending US and Israeli airstrikes, two senior Iranian sources said. Several countries, including Oman and Egypt, tried to mediate in order to end the conflict, but the negotiations did not lead to results.
The White House made it clear that it was not interested in negotiations. Donald Trump has rejected diplomatic efforts and is focused on continuing military action to weaken Iran’s military capabilities, a senior official has confirmed.
Another White House source added that while some of Iran’s leaders have indicated they would be willing to negotiate, Operation Epic Fury will continue unchanged. Iran’s terms include a permanent end to US and Israeli attacks and compensation while a cease-fire is negotiated.
