Araqchi urges regional unity and stronger homegrown security mechanisms against Israeli expansionism

TEHRAN (Iran News)  Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has warned of the severe consequences of the Israeli regime’s expansionism and domination efforts, saying that regional countries should intensify efforts to build and reinforce indigenous security mechanisms.

Araqchi was speaking at a meeting with Saudi Defense Minister Khaled bin Salman in Riyadh on Tuesday evening, when they discussed bilateral ties and regional developments in light of the Israeli regime’s military aggression against Iran.

The top Iranian diplomat condemned the Israeli regime’s military assault on Iran, including strikes on its peaceful nuclear facilities, as an “unforgivable crime” and an “unprecedented act of aggression” against regional and international peace and security.

He thanked Saudi Arabia for its firm and responsible stance in denouncing the attacks.

He also welcomed the continued security and defense consultations between the two countries and described the Saudi minister’s recent visit to Tehran as a key step toward strengthening regional stability.

The Saudi defense minister, for his part, reaffirmed his country’s condemnation of the Israeli regime’s aggression and extended condolences over the loss of Iranian military personnel and civilians.

He underlined the dangerous repercussions of Israel’s recent violations of international law and called for greater cooperation among regional nations to confront destabilizing threats.

Khaled bin Salman also said via X that he met with the Iranian foreign minister and “reviewed various aspects of our cooperation.”

“We also discussed regional developments and efforts to promote security and stability, along with several other topics of mutual interest,” he added.

Araqchi paid a short visit to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday on his way back home from the BRICS Summit in Brazil to discuss bilateral relations and the peace and security in the region. During his visit, he met with top Saudi authorities, including Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman.