Sources say both the US and Iran have no intention of ceasing fire, and the Middle East conflict may become protracted.

Three informed sources revealed that the administration of US President Donald Trump has rejected efforts by Middle Eastern allies aimed at initiating diplomatic negotiations to end the war with Iran. Two senior Iranian sources stated that Iran refuses any possibility of a ceasefire before US-Israeli attacks stop, adding that several countries have been trying to mediate an end to the conflict. The lack of interest from both Washington and Tehran suggests that both sides are prepared for a protracted war, even as the expanding conflict has caused civilian casualties and Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz has led to a surge in oil prices. The US attack on Iran's main oil export hub, Kharg Island, on Friday night highlighted Trump's determination to advance his military offensive. Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mujtaba Khamenei, previously vowed to block the Strait of Hormuz and threatened to increase attacks on neighboring countries.