Iran Rules Out Negotiations With US, Announces Khamenei’s Burial Plans

A senior aide to the late Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has declared that Tehran has no intention of entering into negotiations with the United States.

Mohammad Mokhber made the position known on Wednesday during an interview with State TV, stressing that Iran does not trust America and sees no basis for dialogue.

Mokhber said Iran was prepared to sustain the ongoing Middle East conflict for as long as necessary.

“We will not go into any negotiation with the US. The Americans cannot be trusted. We can continue the war as long as we want,” he stated.

According to him, past dealings with Washington have left Iran sceptical of any diplomatic overtures.

Naija News reports that his remarks come amid heightened tensions following the reported killing of Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes.

Earlier, Iran announced plans to hold a three-day state funeral for the late leader.

According to the official news agency, Islamic Republic News Agency, the faithful would be allowed to pay their last respects at the Imam Khomeini Grand Mosque in Tehran.

“Starting at 10:00 pm (1830 GMT), the faithful will be able to pay a final homage to the body of the martyred guide of the nation, by visiting the Imam Khomenei grand mosque,” the agency quoted a statement from the Islamic Development Coordination Council as saying.

Naija News reports that Khamenei, who was 86 at the time of his death, is expected to be buried in his hometown of Mashhad in northeastern Iran.