Amid intense Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets, Tehran has officially informed mediators — Qatar and Oman — of its firm stance: no negotiations for a ceasefire will take place while Israel continues its attacks on the Islamic Republic’s territory.

This was reported by Reuters, citing sources close to Iran’s top leadership. According to Tehran, any talks about peace are only possible after the completion of a “full military response”, which is intended to serve as a “warning to any future aggressors.”

Since the beginning of the week, Israel has carried out a series of massive strikes on strategic and scientific facilities across Iran — including industrial zones in Isfahan, radar bases in Bushehr, and even infrastructure near Tehran. These strikes were in retaliation for drone and missile attacks launched at Israeli cities on June 13.

Iran's response has been no less aggressive: dozens of rockets and drones were launched toward Israeli territory. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the strikes hit oil terminals and military installations.

A source close to Iran’s National Security Council told Reuters:

“We will not allow our response to become a bargaining chip. A ceasefire will only be possible once Israel feels the consequences of its actions.”

This statement reflects Tehran’s strategic objective: not just to retaliate, but to create an environment in which future attacks by Israel would be politically and militarily unfavorable.

Global leaders, including those from the EU and G7, have expressed deep concern over rising tensions in the region. An emergency statement calling for de-escalation is reportedly being prepared in Brussels, though it lacks concrete leverage over the warring sides.

Washington, for its part, is maintaining a neutral stance, limiting itself to expressions of “deep concern” and diplomatic outreach. The U.S. has so far declined direct involvement, despite requests from Israel.

Thus, the conflict has entered a stage of open confrontation, where diplomacy has temporarily taken a back seat. Iran is positioning itself not as a party seeking peace, but as one dictating the terms. Qatar and Oman are losing their status as effective mediators unless they can bring the parties back to the negotiating table.

If Iran truly carries out its promised “response,” the coming week could prove decisive — either tensions will begin to subside, or the escalation will spiral out of control. The reactions of Washington and Beijing will play a critical role — will they be willing to intervene, even diplomatically?

Source: www.reuters.com

#IRAN

16.06.2025 06:33