Khamenei Rejects Peace as Tensions Mount

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has dismissed proposals conveyed by two intermediary countries for decreasing tensions or establishing a ceasefire with the United States, according to a senior Iranian official on Tuesday.

Khamenei's stance on seeking revenge against the U.S. and Israel was described as 'very tough and serious' during his first foreign policy session, though it was unclear if he attended in person. The conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran enters its third week with over 2,000 casualties and no resolution in sight.

With the Strait of Hormuz largely closed, energy prices have surged as U.S. allies refuse President Trump's request to reopen the strategic passage. Trump administration's efforts to initiate diplomatic negotiations to end the hostilities have reportedly been rebuffed. (Written by Parisa Hafezi; Edited by Aidan Lewis and Hugh Lawson)