Khamenei’s comments come in the wake of a 12-day joint U.S.-Israeli air campaign in June that targeted multiple Iranian nuclear sites, an operation the White House claims “significantly degraded” Tehran’s nuclear infrastructure. Iran, however, maintains that its nuclear program remains intact and continues to operate for civilian energy purposes.

“We will not be deceived by smiles after sabotage and aggression,” Khamenei said in a televised address. “America cannot destroy our resolve through bombs or false offers of diplomacy.”

Trump’s Push for New Dialogue

President Trump last week told Israel’s Knesset that it would be “great” if the United States could negotiate a peace deal with Tehran, following the recent ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.

The statement came amid reports of quiet diplomatic outreach from Washington, seeking to revive engagement with Iran after five rounds of failed indirect nuclear talks earlier this year.

“The door is open,” Trump said. “We want peace with Iran, and we think we can get there not with weakness, but with strength.”

Stalemate Over Enrichment

Western powers including the U.S., UK, France, and Germany continue to accuse Iran of pursuing a covert nuclear weapons program, citing uranium enrichment levels that far exceed the limits set under the defunct 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal (JCPOA).

Tehran has repeatedly denied any intention to develop a nuclear bomb, insisting that its enrichment activities are entirely for energy generation, medical use, and scientific research.

“We do not seek nuclear weapons they are against our religion and our national doctrine,” said Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson.

Context: Airstrikes and Ceasefire

The June air war, carried out by the U.S. and Israel, marked the most direct military confrontation with Iran in recent years. The strikes reportedly targeted uranium enrichment facilities and missile development sites across Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow.

Shortly after the air campaign ended, a ceasefire in Gaza was brokered between Israel and Hamas, raising hopes for a broader regional de-escalation. Trump’s overture to Iran is widely seen as part of a broader strategy to stabilize the Middle East.

utlook Uncertain

With Khamenei’s outright rejection and no formal talks on the horizon, prospects for a U.S.-Iran détente remain bleak. Analysts warn that continued Western pressure could push Tehran closer to its nuclear threshold, while further military strikes risk sparking direct conflict in the region.

VATICAN CITY — In a powerful and widely anticipated moment, Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Sunday address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, using the occasion to issue an emotional appeal for peace across war-torn regions of the world.

“Let there be no more war,” the newly elected pontiff declared to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square and millions watching globally. “Let us choose dialogue over destruction, reconciliation over revenge, and healing over hatred.”

The pope specifically called for a “lasting peace” in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, and welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, which he described as a “sign of hope.”

This was Pope Leo XIV’s first major public appearance since his historic election as the first American-born pope, drawing global attention not only for its symbolic importance but also for the tone he set for his papacy: one of humility, diplomacy, and global outreach.

Observers noted the new pontiff’s firm but compassionate demeanor, which resonated strongly in a time of geopolitical tension. The Vatican confirmed that the pope would meet with several international leaders and religious delegations in the coming days to further encourage peacebuilding efforts.

In a nod to his American roots, Pope Leo also briefly addressed the faithful in English, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support and prayers he has received since his election.

The Vatican said Pope Leo XIV will continue focusing on global humanitarian concerns, interfaith dialogue, and social justice issues as top priorities in the early phase of his pontificate.