By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Iran has firmly rejected calls for a ceasefire in its escalating conflict with the United States and Israel, with senior officials saying a simple pause in hostilities is not enough without long‑term security assurances. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a key political figure, stated on Thursday, March 12, 2026, that Tehran is not seeking a ceasefire and insists the “aggressor” must be punished and taught a lesson, rather than simply halting the conflict. Ghalibaf stressed that Iran rejects the idea of a temporary ceasefire and believes a lasting settlement must address future attacks and guarantees of safety.
Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has echoed this stance, saying Iran does not see reason to negotiate or accept a ceasefire when past ceasefire efforts collapsed and attacks continued, arguing that any genuine end to the war must include permanent guarantees against future U.S. and Israeli strikes.
The firm rejection comes amid sustained diplomatic efforts, including a recent United Nations Security Council Resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire (approved by most members) though Iran’s position suggests it will resist unless its core demands are met.
Iran’s stance underscores deep mistrust of ceasefire proposals and reflects its determination to secure conditions that it believes will prevent a resumption of hostilities after any formal halt in fighting.
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