Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani reiterated on Monday that Tehran will not engage in negotiations with the United States, following a reported U.S.-Israel joint military operation over the weekend. The remarks, posted on social media platform X, directly refuted claims in a Wall Street Journal article alleging backchannel discussions mediated by Oman.
The escalation comes after Saturday's attacks on Tehran and other Iranian cities, which resulted in the deaths of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, high-ranking military officials, and civilians. Larijani accused U.S. President Donald Trump of prioritizing Israeli interests over American lives, stating, "Trump turned 'America First' into 'Israel First,' sacrificing U.S. soldiers for Israel's power-seeking."
Iran has retaliated with missile and drone strikes targeting Israeli and U.S. military bases in the region. The U.S. Central Command confirmed three service member fatalities and five injuries during operations against Iran on Sunday. Analysts warn the conflict risks further destabilizing the Middle East, with global markets already reacting to rising oil prices.
Larijani emphasized Iran's defensive posture, asserting, "The Iranian nation is defending itself." Observers note the crisis underscores deepening U.S.-Iran hostilities, complicating diplomatic pathways as regional alliances shift.
