Iraq urges Iran to defuse regional tensions through dialogue

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and diplomats from both sides. Photo: Iraqi Foreign Ministry Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein emphasized to his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, on Wednesday the importance of defusing regional tensions through dialogue. Hussein’s remarks took place during his meeting with Araghchi in New York on the sidelines of their participation in the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, according to a statement released by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry. The meeting addressed bilateral relations and regional developments, as well as the importance of continued coordination between the two countries to respond to current challenges and support diplomatic efforts aimed at enhancing regional stability. Hussein stressed the significance of continued diplomatic efforts among the parties involved to defuse tension, prevent escalation, and maintain regional stability. Araghchi outlined the discussions that began between Iran and the United States, sponsored by an intermediary, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meetings in New York. These discussions attempt to de-escalate the situation and find approaches to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for navigation. The two sides discussed the outcomes of the meeting involving the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, and Turkey—attended by US President Donald Trump—as well as how regional and international relationships might help efforts for de-escalation. The two ministers emphasized the importance of supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing escalation, defusing tensions, and fostering opportunities for dialog and peaceful solutions.