Tehran Iran has firmly rejected a proposed ceasefire deal related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, stating that any truce must be contingent on Israel first ending what it describes as “illegal aggression” against Palestinians.
In a statement released by Iran’s Foreign Ministry late Monday, officials criticized international efforts that, they claim, “equate the aggressor and the victim,” emphasizing that Iran will not support any agreement that allows Israel to continue its military operations unchallenged.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran will not recognize any ceasefire initiative that fails to demand a complete halt to Israel’s unlawful military actions in Gaza and the broader Palestinian territories,” said Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani.
The rejection comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts by regional and Western powers to broker a truce between Israel and Hamas, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens. The latest ceasefire draft, backed by the U.S. and Egypt, reportedly included provisions for a temporary cessation of hostilities and a phased prisoner exchange.
Iran, a long-standing supporter of Palestinian resistance groups including Hamas, has intensified its rhetoric in recent weeks, accusing Israel of committing war crimes and accusing Western nations of complicity through their continued arms support.
“The international community must act to end the bloodshed, not perpetuate it by shielding the occupying regime,” Kanaani added.
Israel has not officially responded to Iran’s statement. However, Israeli officials have repeatedly stated that military operations will continue until Hamas is “dismantled” and all hostages taken during the October 2023 attacks are released.
Iran’s stance is expected to complicate ongoing diplomatic negotiations, particularly within the United Nations and the Arab League, where divisions over how to address the conflict remain sharp.
Regional analysts suggest Tehran’s hardened position may also reflect a broader strategy to assert influence amid shifting alliances in the Middle East, especially as ties between Gulf Arab states and Israel face renewed strain.