Iran Foreign Minister Araghchi characterizes the region as a ‘powder keg’ and asserts that Iran is prepared for ‘any scenario’
Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has cautioned about the potential for escalating conflict in the West Asia region, characterizing the current situation as a "powder keg." This warning comes amidst Israel's intensified military actions in the Gaza Strip and southern Lebanon, which have significantly raised tensions in this strategically crucial area.
In a weekend meeting held in Istanbul, Iranian diplomat Araghchi exchanged views on a range of regional and bilateral topics with Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. This discussion occurred in the context of the 3+3 South Caucasus Regional Cooperation Platform, highlighting the countries’ ongoing diplomatic engagements.
The senior Iranian diplomat stated that discussions focused on regional matters, particularly addressing the ongoing actions of the Zionist regime and its attempts to escalate conflict in the area, which have been universally rejected by regional parties. Both nations concurred that the ongoing violence in Gaza and Lebanon must cease immediately, urging all Islamic countries to leverage their resources to halt Israel’s actions.
The official emphasized that the region has become increasingly volatile and poses a significant threat to global security. He noted that, while the risk of conflict remains elevated, it seems that only the Israeli government is seeking such an outcome. However, he assured that readiness has been maintained for any eventuality.
Araghchi condemned Israel, labeling it as the “primary source of global insecurity” and accused the regime of blatantly violating international law without hesitation.
He stated that the Zionist regime represents a significant source of global insecurity, criticizing international mechanisms for their inability to curb these actions. He further asserted that U.S. support has emboldened the regime’s leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu.
The regime continues to flagrantly disregard international laws, underscoring the urgent need to halt hostilities and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Deputy Foreign Minister Araghchi emphasized the shared objectives, interests, and challenges faced by Iran and Turkey, highlighting the two nations’ commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing regional collaboration.
The Iranian Foreign Minister highlighted his consecutive visits to regional nations in the past week, stating that these interactions demonstrate “complete solidarity” among the region’s countries with the people and cause of Palestine.
He stated that there is a clear denouncement of the actions of the Zionist regime, with many advocating for the condemnation and cessation of its activities in Gaza and Lebanon.
Highlighting concerns among regional nations over escalating tensions and the potential spread of conflict, Araghchi stated that Iran does not seek escalation and is advocating for a ceasefire, while also preparing for any scenario that may arise.
In a regional consensus, countries situated geographically between Iran and Israel have reportedly committed to not permitting their territories to be used for actions against Iran, according to a statement from an official.
Fidan addressed the aggressive military actions by Israel against Gaza and Lebanon, noting that Tel Aviv appears to be seeking to provoke Iran into the conflict, while also issuing threats against Iran’s nuclear sites.
The Turkish Foreign Minister has urged the cessation of aggressive rhetoric from the Zionist regime, highlighting the prevailing tensions within the region.
A call for peace has been issued, urging for restraint and the avoidance of conflict. The statement emphasized the need for a ceasefire in Gaza, urging Israel to halt any threats and aggressive actions.
Leading a delegation, Araghchi has arrived in Istanbul as part of his ongoing regional tour and participated in the 3+3 mechanism meeting. Prior to his Istanbul visit, Araghchi traveled to Jordan and Egypt, engaging in discussions with high-ranking officials to address recent regional developments, with a focus on the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
In a diplomatic effort to halt the actions of the Israeli regime in Lebanon and Gaza, Araghchi conducted a regional tour that included visits to Lebanon, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, and Oman.
Istanbul has become the ninth destination in his ongoing regional diplomatic tour as tensions continue to rise.
