Iran Seeks Stronger Ties With Neighboring Muslim Countries

Iran is striving to fortify political and economic ties with Muslim nations, particularly those in the region, according to Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Speaking at the 40th International Islamic Unity Conference, Araghchi emphasized Iran's focus on unity and cooperation within the Muslim world. He stated, "We want good relations with all Islamic countries, especially neighboring countries."

Araghchi also highlighted Iran's intention to broaden economic cooperation across the Muslim world, noting that Iran already maintains extensive relations with most of these nations. He added, "We seek broader economic relations with all Islamic countries, and, thank God, we have extensive relations with all of them."

Regarding Egypt and Lebanon, Araghchi expressed Iran's desire to improve relations with Egypt, stating that Iran would be ready to restore ties whenever Egypt's leaders decide to do so. In the case of Lebanon, he affirmed Iran's commitment to fostering good relations with all political groups and factions, while also expressing hope for Iran's Foreign Ministry to demonstrate "greater rationality" in light of some policies adopted by the Lebanese government.

Araghchi further stressed the importance of Iran's traditionally strong relations with African countries, stating that Iran aims to expand these ties across the Muslim world while giving neighboring nations special significance. However, he acknowledged that regional tensions remain high, particularly due to ongoing military tensions in the area.

In response to U.S. attacks, Araghchi claimed Iran had targeted U.S. positions in neighboring countries as a form of self-defense. He affirmed, "Our fighters will strike any American target in the region during wartime, whether it is a US base, an American facility or a gathering point for their forces." Araghchi described U.S. and Israeli strikes as "illegitimate aggression," while Iran's military response was labeled as "legitimate self-defense."

Since the war began with strikes on Iran in late February, tensions between Tehran and Washington have remained high. Iran retaliated by targeting U.S. military positions and assets in Arab countries aligned with Washington. Although Iran and the United States signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding in Islamabad on June 18 to end hostilities and facilitate negotiations, implementation has faced challenges as Iran accuses the U.S. of failing to fulfill its commitments.

The United States later resumed military attacks on Iran in July, resulting in further Iranian retaliatory strikes.