Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi stated on Sunday that the recent conflict involving the United States has demonstrated that regional security in the Middle East cannot be achieved by eliminating or ignoring Iran. He emphasized that sustainable peace and stability require cooperation among all countries in the region.
Araghchi's Remarks at Tehran Meeting
Speaking at the second session of meetings with activists from Iran's popular organizations, Araghchi said the recent war reshaped regional perceptions about Iran's role and influence. According to a statement shared on Telegram, he asserted: 'The experience of the recent war showed that regional security cannot be based on eliminating or ignoring Iran. The countries of the region have gradually come to the realization that sustainable security, economic development, and regional stability are only possible through cooperation, understanding, and consideration of the common interests of all countries in the region, including the Islamic Republic of Iran.'
National Unity as a Source of Strength
Araghchi stressed that Iran's strength extends beyond military capabilities and is rooted in national unity and public support. He paid tribute to those killed in what he described as the war imposed on the Iranian nation, particularly those who died in the most recent conflict. He further noted that Iran achieved not only tactical successes against US and Israeli forces but also strategic gains influencing regional and international dynamics.
'What showed the true image of Iran's power to the world was not only military power, but also national cohesion, the nation's steadfastness, and the people's conscious presence on the scene; an asset that today is considered the main support of Iran's authority in the field of diplomacy,' he said.
Shattering Perceptions of Weakness
Referring to international perceptions, Araghchi said the recent conflict had undermined narratives portraying Iran as weak and isolated. He noted that the conflict 'completely shattered' these perceptions. 'For years, efforts had been made to create an image of a weak, isolated, and vulnerable Iran in the world's public opinion. However, recent events have completely shattered this image and demonstrated the reality of the power of the Islamic Republic of Iran,' he said.
Adversaries' Goals Defeated
The Foreign Minister alleged that the objective of Iran's adversaries was to weaken the resolve of the Iranian people and destabilize the country's institutions. 'The main goal of the war planners was to break the will of the Iranian nation and create instability in the country's structure, a goal that was defeated by the presence of the people on the scene and the unparalleled display of national unity,' he said.
Call for New Regional Security Architecture
Araghchi highlighted the importance of public support, stating that national cohesion strengthened Iran's position on the global stage and enhanced its diplomatic leverage. He called for a new regional security architecture based on collective participation and shared interests. 'The new security structure of the region requires the participation of all countries in the region and a vision based on collective cooperation, and the Islamic Republic of Iran has always emphasized this approach,' Araghchi said.
Diplomatic Context
Araghchi's comments come at a time when diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions between Iran and the United States appear to be gaining traction, raising hopes for a potential agreement that could contribute to broader regional stability.
