Trump dismisses Iran peace talks as “highly fabricated and fake” as Israel-Iran war enters a perilous phase. US President Donald Trump on June 17 denied media reports that he had initiated contact with Tehran for talks. He stated that no such contact was ever made.
While this was happening, Israel and Iran’s military attacks did not cease, with over 200 reported casualties in Iran and over a dozen in Israel. Each country received fresh hits—Israel confirmed it had killed a high-ranking Iranian general, while Iran said it had attacked a Mossad compound.
Trump Calls Peace Talks ‘Fake’
Trump put up a firm denial on Truth Social. He stated, “I have not contacted Iran for ‘Peace Talks’ in any shape, form, or fashion. This is just more HIGHLY FABRICATED, FAKE NEWS! If they wish to talk, they understand how to contact me. They should have accepted the deal that was available — would have saved a lot of lives!!!”
The words came amid previous speculation that Washington was quietly calling on Tehran to stop its missile attacks. Trump rejected the report and claimed the ball was in Iran’s court.
Trump Calls For ‘Real End’
While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump outlined his expectations. He said he preferred a “real end” to the conflict instead of a ceasefire. “An end, a real end, not a ceasefire. An end. Or giving entirely. That’s OK, too,” he stated.
When asked if Israel was planning to slow its attacks, Trump responded, “You’re going to find out. Nobody’s slowed up so far.” His words imply that he anticipates continued military conflict over the next few days.
Israel and Iran Exchange Deadly Blows
On the ground, tensions ran high. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that Ali Shadmani, the chief of Iran’s Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, was killed in an airstrike against Tehran. The IDF called it a strategic strike against Iran’s war efforts.
Retaliation
In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps indicated it had struck a Mossad headquarters in Israel. Iranian government media claimed the foreign intelligence agency’s headquarters had been hit.
With both sides dig in their heels, the war continues to escalate. Trump’s dismissal of peace overtures takes immediate hopes for diplomacy off the table. As the next 48 hours play out, world attention remains riveted on whether Israel escalates its campaign or changes course. The bombs continue to fall and the price continues to mount for the time being.
