WANA (Oct 14) – The spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Esmail Baqaei, explained the reasons behind the Islamic Republic’s absence from the recent Sharm el-Sheikh Summit, emphasizing that “international engagement is not limited to physical attendance at meetings.”

 

In a radio interview elaborating on Iran’s official stance regarding the Sharm el-Sheikh summit and other regional and international issues, Baqaei said:

 

“This summit was not truly international. It was neither held under the auspices of the United Nations nor were all countries invited. Only about 30 delegations from specific countries and international organizations participated. Many nations, including China and Russia, were not invited.”

 

Baqaei outlined Iran’s key priorities, stressing: “The Islamic Republic of Iran’s foremost priority is ending the genocide and mass killing of innocent people in Gaza. We have consistently emphasized that stopping the humanitarian catastrophe, ensuring the return of displaced persons, providing safe shelter for Gaza’s residents, and the withdrawal of Zionist occupiers must top the agenda. The tragedy of the past two years is not only a violation of international law but also a blatant affront to ethics and humanity.”

 

In response to claims that Iran’s absence represented a missed diplomatic opportunity, Baqaei rejected the notion, saying: “Not at all. International engagement is not confined to physical participation in summits. Sometimes, uncalculated attendance can harm a country’s position.”

 

He added, “Only a few months ago, in June, Iran was subjected to an illegal and criminal attack by the United States—with the Zionist regime playing a role under U.S. approval. Naturally, we cannot participate in a summit chaired by a party that boasts about such criminal actions.”

 

Addressing long-standing concerns about so-called peace initiatives in the region, the spokesman noted: “Over the past century, numerous plans have been proposed under the banner of peace and reconciliation regarding Palestine. Yet, the outcome has consistently been further erosion of Palestinian rights.”

 

“Today, we are witnessing the consequences—ethnic cleansing, the killing of more than 70,000 innocent people, and the destruction of 90% of Gaza. No plan can lead to genuine peace until the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination is recognized, he added.”

 

Baqaei also elaborated on Iran’s approach to diplomacy, asserting that it remains an active and essential tool: “The Islamic Republic of Iran has been among the most engaged nations in diplomatic processes over recent decades. We have consistently used diplomacy to safeguard national interests and promote international peace and security.”

 

He continued, “The fact that Iran was attacked illegally in the midst of a diplomatic process will be recorded in history. At the same time, the Iranian people’s defense of their sovereignty demonstrated our ability to respond powerfully when necessary. Diplomacy will never be suspended, and we will continue to employ it in line with our national interests.”

 

The senior diplomat reaffirmed Iran’s firm and principled stance in international affairs, praising the Foreign Ministry’s efforts to protect the country’s national interests and territorial integrity.