Iran rejects ceasefire with US, demands guarantees against renewed war

Iran publicly dismissed the idea of a ceasefire with the United States on Monday, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stating that a temporary halt would be strategically disadvantageous. Speaking at a press briefing, Baqaei argued: “A ceasefire means a pause to rebuild forces for renewed attacks. No rational actor would accept that.” He emphasized that Tehran would only consider arrangements that include binding “guarantees” to prevent a cycle of ceasefire and renewed conflict.

Demand for assurances

Baqaei stressed that any decisions related to national security “must ensure no further acts of aggression.” Iran’s rejection comes despite reports that US and regional mediators are urgently discussing a potential 45-day truce. Tehran appears skeptical that Washington would honor a long-term cessation of hostilities, given the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign that has targeted Iranian military commanders, intelligence officials, and energy infrastructure.

War continues as Türkiye urges diplomacy

The US and Israel launched their joint offensive on Iran on February 28, killing more than 1,340 people to date, including former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and infrastructure damage while disrupting global markets and aviation. For Türkiye, which has consistently called for an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic resolution, Iran’s insistence on guarantees reflects deep mistrust that any truce would be lasting. Ankara continues to urge all parties to engage in good-faith negotiations, warning that without credible assurances, the conflict will continue to spiral.