Iran has firmly informed mediators from Qatar and Oman that it will not entertain ceasefire discussions or negotiations while Israeli military actions persist, according to a senior official familiar with the situation, who spoke on Sunday. This position highlights the escalating tensions as both nations intensify their military operations, raising concerns about a wider regional conflict.
The source, requesting anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, stated that Iran’s message was unequivocal: “Iran has communicated to the Qatari and Omani mediators that serious negotiations will only be considered once it has addressed the Israeli pre-emptive strikes.”
The official further emphasised Iran’s unwillingness to engage in dialogue while under attack: “They made it clear that negotiations are off the table as long as hostilities continue.”
The current hostilities were ignited by a surprise Israeli strike on Friday morning, which reportedly resulted in significant casualties among high-ranking Iranian military officials and targeted nuclear facilities. Israel has announced plans to escalate its offensive in the coming days. In retaliation, Iran has vowed to respond severely, warning it will “open the gates of hell” in what could become the most intense conflict between the two nations in decades.
Recent media reports suggested that Iran had asked Oman and Qatar to appeal to the United States for a ceasefire and the resumption of nuclear negotiations. However, the official dismissed these reports as misleading.
Requests for comments from Iran’s foreign ministry and the foreign ministries of Qatar and Oman went unanswered.
Both Gulf countries have historically played crucial roles in diplomacy involving Iran and the US. Oman, in particular, had recently facilitated indirect nuclear discussions that were abruptly halted following the latest Israeli offensive. Qatar, which mediated a significant prisoner exchange between Iran and the US in 2023, continues to maintain diplomatic channels with both nations and Israel.
As the conflict escalates and diplomatic efforts falter, the region prepares for further turbulence, with no clear resolution in sight.
