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 president calls for unity after reports of mass killings
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa called for national unity and peace after over 1,000 people were killed in clashes in coastal Syria. The violence erupted between new security forces and loyalists of the former government, leading to the largest challenge to the new government's forces since Assad's overthrow. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that Alawite civilians were among those killed in "executions" by security personnel, prompting fears of reprisals in the region. Full Article
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