Iran will not hold talks with US: Larijani

Iran’s top national security official, Ali Larijani, has made it clear that his country will not engage in any talks with the United States.

Larijani stated this hardline stance in a post on social media platform X on Monday (March 2).

Earlier, a report by the Wall Street Journal claimed that Iran, through Omani mediation, had sent a proposal to engage in talks with Washington. Larijani’s statement has now dismissed those claims, signaling further tension in US-Tehran relations.

Meanwhile, the conflict in the Middle East has escalated dramatically. In Lebanon, at least 10 people were killed in an Israeli attack, according to Reuters. The attack targeted southern suburbs of Beirut, with medical sources confirming the fatalities.

Israeli media claimed that after missiles were fired from Lebanon, the capital is now directly involved in hostilities against Tel Aviv. Lebanese President Michel Aoun described the situation as a “proxy conflict” and warned against dragging Lebanon into the fighting.

This marks the first major Israel-Lebanon confrontation since the 2024 ceasefire.

To contain the conflict, Israel has issued evacuation orders for residents in over 50 villages in southern Lebanon. Civilians living near Hezbollah facilities or military assets were instructed to move at least 1,000 meters away to open areas to ensure safety.

In parallel, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) held an emergency video conference, pledging joint resistance against Iranian “aggression.” The six-member council, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, said they are ready to take any necessary measures to protect themselves and restore regional stability.

In the US, a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted after the joint US-Israeli strikes in Iran revealed that only 27 per cent of Americans supported the military action, while 43% opposed it. About 56% of respondents said they believe President Trump is overly eager to use military force to protect US interests.

Amid this international tension, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman stated that while Bangladesh favors peace and dialogue, it will not take sides in the current conflict between Iran and the Western powers.

Source: Reuters