Many Countries Seeking to Mediate Between Iran and U.S.
WANA (Sep 16) – Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that numerous countries are seeking to mediate between Iran and the United States, stressing that the issue is “not just about Qatar.”
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) summit, Araghchi discussed strengthening ECO, developments in the Caucasus, regional opposition to Israel, possible talks with Washington, and Iran’s upcoming participation in the UN General Assembly.
Araghchi highlighted the importance of ECO’s 10-year vision, noting that it would allow the organization to expand its role in regional economic development. He also confirmed that requests from countries interested in joining ECO would be reviewed by member states.
On Israel, Araghchi referred to the recent joint summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Arab League in Doha, calling it a timely event held in response to the growing threat posed by Israel.
He said Israel’s aggression had become “an undeniable reality” for the entire region and emphasized the need for unity and cooperation among regional countries to counter it.
Addressing reports of Qatar’s mediation in potential Iran-U.S. negotiations, Araghchi said: “Several regional countries are trying to play a positive role. But the main issue is the will of the other side to reach an agreement based on mutual interests, without threats and coercion. If they reach that point, the rest will fall into place.”
Turning to Iran’s participation in the upcoming UN General Assembly, he said President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to attend. “The UN is a vital platform to bring the voice of the Iranian people to the global community and to explain our positions on regional and international issues,” Araghchi said, adding that he would also attend, pending visa arrangements.
He noted that the sidelines of the Assembly provide valuable opportunities for bilateral meetings that otherwise would require separate trips.
About the Caucasus, the foreign minister stressed the need for regional solutions, criticizing the role of outside powers: “Foreign countries, especially the U.S., have done nothing to help establish lasting peace in the region. That is why we have proposed the 3+3 regional format.”
OIC. Social Media / WANA News Agency
