Iran’s foreign minister to depart for regional tour, starting with Riyadh

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will embark on a trip to Riyadh and other regional capitals.

On the sidelines of a summit in Tehran on Tuesday, Araghchi addressed reporters.

“Our dialogue continues regarding developments in the region, aimed at preventing the shameless crimes of the Zionist regime in Lebanon, in continuation of their crimes in Gaza.”

“Starting today, I will begin a trip to Riyadh and other regional capitals, and we will work towards a collective effort by regional countries to stop the brutal attacks in Lebanon.”

Highlighting Iran’s stance on resistance, he said, “Iran’s policy is to support resistance, and this is a fundamental principle. We will never abandon this policy,” adding, “If negotiations take place, they are solely aimed at stopping Israeli crimes. Our objective is to halt conflicts and achieve an acceptable ceasefire.”

On the preparedness of the nation’s armed forces, the foreign minister said, “We are ready for any scenario, and the Islamic Republic’s armed forces are at the highest level of readiness.”

Commenting on the country’s relations with the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council, he noted that an unofficial meeting had already taken place.

“Our relations with the PGCC have had their ups and downs, but there is a will to move towards regional cooperation.”

The meeting was hosted by Qatar on Thursday.

Araghchi left Tehran for Beirut on October 4 as part of a two-day regional tour. He held talks with Lebanese officials before visiting Damascus the following day to meet with Syrian leaders.

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