US-Iran War Enters 16th Day as White House Aide Urges Withdrawal, Trump Rejects Ceasefire

The war between the United States, Israel and Iran has entered its 16th day, with continued airstrikes and missile exchanges reported across the region, including attacks on Iranian cities and retaliatory strikes toward Israeli territory and U.S. facilities.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated in a phone interview with NBC News that Iran is willing to negotiate a ceasefire but he is not prepared to accept a deal yet, citing unfavorable conditions and uncertainty about the status of Mojtaba Khamenei, whom he referred to as Iran's new leader. Trump said he did not know whether Khamenei was alive.

Trump claimed U.S. and Israeli forces have destroyed much of Iran's Kharg Island facilities and a large portion of its missile and drone capabilities, leaving mainly short-range missiles and mines. He added that operations along Iran's coastline could eliminate those remaining assets.

David Sacks, Senior Director of Artificial Intelligence at the White House, urged Trump to declare victory and withdraw from the war with Iran, stating that escalation no longer yields positive results and de-escalation should be prioritized, according to Bakhtar News citing international media.

Bakhtar News reported that the U.S. has incurred heavy financial and human costs from Iran's attacks on American military bases and interests in the region, as well as on occupied territories and the Israeli regime. Iranian officials have rejected talks with Washington while fighting continues.

The conflict has raised international concerns over potential wider regional escalation, with several countries urging restraint.