Iranian FM Meets Saudi Crown Prince Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions

Iranian FM Meets Saudi Crown Prince Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions

Tehran, The Gulf Observer: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Wednesday, marking the first leg of his regional tour. The discussions focused on strengthening Tehran-Riyadh cooperation and addressing pressing regional issues, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The meeting took place just hours after Araghchi’s arrival in the Saudi capital. According to a post on X (formerly Twitter) by Esmaeil Baghaei, the spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, both officials expressed satisfaction with the positive trend in bilateral relations and emphasized the importance of further enhancing cooperation.

The situation in the region, particularly the humanitarian crisis stemming from the violence in Gaza and Lebanon, was a significant topic of conversation. Both Araghchi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlighted the necessity for regional and international collaboration to halt the ongoing conflict and “genocide” in these areas.

Prior to his meeting with the Crown Prince, Araghchi engaged in “constructive” discussions with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan. Their dialogue also centered on the developments in Gaza and Lebanon, where Israeli attacks have intensified.

During the meetings, the Iranian and Saudi foreign ministers called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Lebanon and Gaza, along with urgent humanitarian aid to those displaced by the violence.

Araghchi’s visit comes at a time of heightened tensions in West Asia, as the region grapples with the repercussions of the ongoing Israeli aggression. The meetings reflect a cautious optimism for improved relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia amid these challenging circumstances.