Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, rejected negotiating with the United States over the country’s nuclear program, denouncing “bullying governments” and dismissing President Trump’s recent offer. Despite Trump’s suggestion of talks or potential military action, Khamenei warned that negotiations are used by some countries to make new demands, which Iran will not accept. The 2015 nuclear accord had been effective until Trump withdrew, imposing sanctions and prompting Iran’s nuclear program to now be at a critical point, with experts concerned about containment efforts being hindered by recent disruptions.
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Syria’s Interim President Calls for Unity Amid Fresh Fighting
Ahmed al-Shara, Syria's interim president, appealed for calm and unity following deadly clashes between government forces and loyalists to ousted dictator Bashar al-Assad, with hundreds killed according to monitoring groups. As fresh fighting erupted in Latakia and Tartus Provinces, government forces were reported to be targeting armed fighters from the previous regime. The violence, primarily in Alawite-majority areas, has raised concerns of renewed sectarian conflict, with over 1,000 killed, including 700 civilians, though the exact...
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