Cooperation between Iran and the United States is not possible as long as Washington continues to support Israel, maintain military bases and interfere in the Middle East region, said Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Khamenei’s comments come at a time when the Trump administration is seeking to increase pressure on Iran.

“Americans sometimes say they would like to cooperate with Iran. Cooperation with Iran is not possible as long as the U.S. continues to support the damned Zionist regime, maintain military bases and intervene in the region,” Khamenei said, according to state media.

Trump stated last month that the U.S. is ready to reach a deal with Iran when Tehran, on its part, expresses this specific desire, noting: “The hand of friendship and cooperation (with Iran) is open.”