Iran has told mediators from Qatar and Oman that it will not consider a ceasefire or enter negotiations while Israeli attacks continue, a senior official familiar with the discussions said on Sunday. The stance underscores the heightened tensions as both countries escalate military actions, sparking fears of a broader regional conflict.
According to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, Iran conveyed its position clearly: “The Iranians informed Qatari and Omani mediators that they will only pursue serious negotiations once Iran has completed its response to the Israeli pre-emptive strikes.”
Iran’s refusal to engage in talks under fire was further emphasised: “They made it clear that they will not negotiate while under attack,” the official added.
The ongoing confrontation was triggered by a surprise Israeli strike on Friday morning that reportedly decimated top-ranking Iranian military officials and targeted its nuclear facilities. Israel has declared that its offensive will escalate in the coming days. In response, Iran has threatened severe retaliation, warning it will “open the gates of hell” in what is fast becoming the most intense clash between the two adversaries in decades.
Recent media reports had suggested that Iran had requested Oman and Qatar to appeal to the United States for a ceasefire and a renewal of nuclear talks. However, the official dismissed these claims as inaccurate.
Neither Iran’s foreign ministry nor the foreign ministries of Qatar and Oman responded to requests for comment.
Both Gulf nations have played significant roles in past diplomacy involving Iran and the US. Oman, in particular, had recently facilitated indirect nuclear discussions, which were abruptly canceled following Israel’s latest offensive. Qatar, which mediated a high-profile prisoner swap between Iran and the US in 2023, also maintains open lines with both countries and Israel.
As the conflict deepens and diplomatic efforts stall, the region braces for further escalation with no immediate path to de-escalation in sight.