Trump rejects efforts for Iran ceasefire talks; Tehran rules out truce - Reuters

The Trump administration has rejected attempts by mediators to start ceasefire talks with Iran, while Tehran has also ruled out the possibility of a truce until U.S. and Israeli strikes stop, Reuters reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Several Middle Eastern countries have been trying to open diplomatic channels between Washington and Tehran to halt the escalating conflict, but U.S. officials have so far declined to engage in discussions aimed at launching ceasefire negotiations, the sources said.  

The conflict began roughly two weeks ago after the United States and Israel launched major airstrikes on Iranian targets, triggering retaliation from Tehran across the region.  

The war has since disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil chokepoints, pushing up energy prices and raising concerns about global supply.