WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a last-minute plea from Native Americans seeking to challenge a massive copper mining project in Arizona that would destroy a sacred site used for tribal ceremonies, a weighty dispute that pitted religious rights against business interests.

The court turned away an appeal brought by the nonprofit group Apache Stronghold asserting that its members' religious rights will be violated if the Resolution Copper mine goes forward because it would obliterate Oak Flat, the site in question.

The Trump administration recently announced its backing of the project, which is now set to move forward.

Vicky Peacey, general manager at Resolution Copper, said in a statement that "extensive consultation" with tribes has already led to significant changes to the project.

Peacey added that the "ongoing dialogue will continue to shape the project."

Wendsler Nosie Sr., a member of Apache Stronghold, said in a statement the fight would continue.

"While this decision is a heavy blow, our struggle is far from over. We urge Congress to take decisive action to stop this injustice while we press forward in the courts," he said.

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