Iranian FM: Israel driving Middle East toward disaster

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has called for unity among Middle Eastern countries to safeguard regional security, asserting that Israel is driving the area toward disaster.

Araghchi expressed this sentiment on X (formerly Twitter) following his meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud in Riyadh on October 9, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media sources.

He emphasized the necessity for "shrewdness, wisdom, courage, and cooperation" to navigate the current challenges facing the region. During his visit, Araghchi also held discussions with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, highlighting the potential for collaboration between Iran and Saudi Arabia to enhance security and stability. He noted the importance of increased political will and expressed optimism about the initial steps taken with his Saudi counterpart.

Earlier reports indicated that Iran had cautioned Gulf nations against offering military assistance or airspace to Israel in the event of retaliatory strikes following Iran's missile attacks. Araghchi had intended to address this issue during his Riyadh visit.

On October 1, Iran launched a significant missile strike against Israel in response to the killings of key figures from Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. While Tehran claimed a 90% success rate for its missiles, Israel maintained that most of the approximately 180 missiles were intercepted. In retaliation, Israel's military has promised a strong response, while Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned of intensified actions against Israel.

By Tamilla Hasanova