FM: Iran Did Not Threaten to Close Strait of Hormuz, Despite Capability

In the interview with the Egyptian daily Al-Masry Al-Youm, Araghchi addressed key regional issues, stressing the dangerous situation in West Asia. He highlighted the urgent need for coordination among regional nations to counter Israeli actions in Gaza and Lebanon.

Araghchi said the region is going through extremely perilous times. The Islamic Republic of Iran, given the current conditions, feels the necessity for immediate consultation and cooperation among regional countries. It is crucial to adopt measures that will halt the atrocities of the Zionist regime in Gaza and Lebanon.
He added, "Regional countries and the international community must step up efforts to end these crimes by the occupying Israeli regime before they spread further."

A Potential "Second Gaza" in Lebanon

Araghchi warned of the potential for a "second Gaza" in southern Lebanon if serious action is not taken to curb Israeli aggression. He stressed that regional nations must take practical and effective steps to stop these crimes in order to de-escalate tensions, noting that increased hostilities benefit no one in the region.
The Iranian foreign minister also called for stronger regional cooperation, suggesting that Iran, Turkey, and Arab nations could form a powerful regional alliance. "A year after the Zionist genocide in the Gaza Strip and following the exposure of certain expansionist plans by this regime, it is clear that the real threat to the region is the Zionist enemy," Araghchi said.
He underscored that efforts to demonize Iran and the Resistance Axis have failed, and that it is now clear who truly poses a threat to the region and who fights for the Palestinian cause and regional interests.
2