Mohsen Rezaei, military advisor to Iran's supreme leader, stated on 23/3 that the conflict will continue until Iran receives full compensation for all damages and sanctions are lifted. He added that Tehran also demands international assurance that the US does not interfere in the internal affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, emphasizing that this stance reflects the decision of the people, the supreme leader, and Iran's armed forces. Echoing this sentiment, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the people demand "thorough and appropriate punishment" for those who initiated the conflict.

Rezaei affirmed that Iran's leadership structure is stable, with its armed forces strongly conducting operations. The Iranian official suggested the conflict could have ended over a week ago, noting that the US was ready to stop for a ceasefire agreement. He accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of pushing to maintain the war, stating, "After day 15, the US clearly understood this war had no chance of winning."

Mohsen Rezaei speaking on television in 7/2025. *Aawsat*

On the same day, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that US President Donald Trump believes this is an opportune time to convert military gains into an agreement that "protects core interests." However, Netanyahu noted that Israel will continue to attack Iran and Lebanon. He said, "We are striking missile and nuclear programs forcefully and repeatedly inflicting heavy blows on Hezbollah." The Israeli prime minister also affirmed his country's military had just killed two Iranian nuclear scientists and hinted at further operations.

President Trump stated on 23/3 that the US and Iran had "very good and productive discussions" over the past two days regarding a comprehensive resolution of hostilities in the Middle East. He indicated he is negotiating with a "senior Iranian leader" to end the conflict, but specified it is not Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei rejected President Trump's information, stating that Tehran has no contact with Tel Aviv. He emphasized that Iran's position on the Strait of Hormuz and conditions for ending the conflict remain unchanged: the US and Israel must cease hostilities, commit not to attack Iran in the future, and compensate the country.

Vu Hoang (According to CNN, AFP, Reuters)