Iranian Official Rejects Trump’s Claim: “We Never Asked for a Ceasefire or Negotiation”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Sunday that Iran has “never asked for a ceasefire, and we have never asked even for negotiation.” This declaration came in response to President Donald Trump’s remarks the previous day, in which he claimed, “Iran wants to make a deal, and I don’t want to make it because the terms aren’t good enough yet.” Araghchi emphasized Iran’s readiness to defend itself “as long as it takes.”
U.S. Appeals for International Support
On Saturday, Trump called on other nations to assist the U.S. in ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime chokepoint vulnerable to Iranian attacks. He expressed hope that countries such as China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK would contribute naval support to address what he termed an “artificial constraint.”
This appeal followed U.S. military actions on Friday, which targeted Iranian military sites on Kharg Island, a significant component of Iran’s oil infrastructure. Trump warned that further restrictions on maritime traffic in the Strait could lead to additional strikes on the island’s oil facilities.
Pentagon Estimates Conflict Duration
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicated on Sunday that the ongoing conflict is expected to last “a few more weeks.” He suggested that gas prices in the U.S. might begin to decline once hostilities cease. Wright noted that the Strait of Hormuz remains unsafe for shipping and that U.S. efforts are focused on degrading Iran’s offensive capabilities. He mentioned that military escorts for oil tankers could commence by the end of the month.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department confirmed the identities of six Air Force personnel who lost their lives in a recent KC-135 crash in Western Iraq.
Political Reactions and International Discussions
Republican Representative Dan Crenshaw, a former Navy SEAL, addressed concerns regarding the recent deployment of U.S. Marines to the Middle East. He clarified that this deployment should not be interpreted as a signal for ground troops entering Iran. Crenshaw stated that it reflects a commitment to support necessary contingency operations.
In a separate development, Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed the Iran war and the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Their conversation focused on the ongoing situation in the Middle East and its impact on global shipping costs. Starmer’s cautious approach aligns with public sentiment in the UK, which largely opposes deeper involvement in the conflict.
European Union foreign ministers are scheduled to meet on Monday to discuss potential naval missions, as the U.S. seeks to form a coalition for securing shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. One proposal includes expanding the EU’s existing naval mission in the Red Sea to cover the strategic waterway, although skepticism exists regarding its effectiveness.
Impact on Sports and Security Concerns
The escalating conflict has led to the cancellation of several sporting events in the Middle East. UEFA announced the cancellation of the Argentina vs. Spain Finalissima in Qatar, originally set for March 27, due to security concerns. Additionally, Formula One has canceled races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia amid the turmoil.
Iraqi officials have raised alarms about the safety of Al-Karkh Central Prison, which houses thousands of ISIS detainees, following missile strikes near Baghdad International Airport. Iran-backed militias have claimed responsibility for these attacks, further escalating tensions in the region.
Economic Ramifications
The average price for a gallon of gas in the U.S. has surged from $3.45 to $3.70 within a week, reflecting the economic impact of the Iran war. A month prior, prices were at $2.93. Analysts predict that prices could reach between $5 and $5.50 if Brent crude surpasses $150 per barrel, depending on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Calls for Ceasefire
Pope Leo XIV made a strong appeal for a ceasefire in the Iran war, urging those responsible for the conflict to halt hostilities to allow for dialogue. The Vatican has indicated its intention to maintain diplomatic channels with all parties involved while advocating for civilian protections.
The Pentagon estimates that the conflict may conclude within four to six weeks, with expectations of a positive shock to the global economy once it ends. Officials noted that Iran’s leverage has diminished compared to previous energy crises.
As reported by www.newsweek.com.
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Published on 2026-03-15 20:00:00 • By Editorial Desk
