Iran's Araghchi warns US strikes send 'dangerous message' for global diplomacy
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned on Friday that the escalating conflict with the United States threatened not only Iran but also the foundations of international law, accusing Washington and Israel of undermining diplomacy through military action.
Speaking at a meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers in Cholpon-Ata, Araghchi said Iran had chosen dialogue and negotiations before coming under attack.
"The Islamic Republic of Iran chose the path of diplomacy and dialogue, and negotiations were underway to settle differences. The response to diplomacy came not through negotiation, but through a military attack," he said.
He argued that such actions weakened confidence in diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
"Such behaviour undermines confidence in diplomacy, calls into question the credibility of mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes, and carries a dangerous message for the future of international relations," Araghchi said.
The Iranian foreign minister also accused the United States and Israel of violating international law, citing what he described as breaches of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and attacks on civilian infrastructure.
Araghchi reaffirmed Iran's commitment to cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, saying Tehran was ready to make its transport, energy and regional trade capabilities available to fellow member states.
His remarks came after a 13th consecutive night of US strikes on Iran, while Tehran continued targeting American military assets across the region.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
