Iran's FM Cautions US: Don't Allow Netanyahu to Undermine Diplomacy
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Tehran, April 10 (NationPress) Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi issued a warning to the United States, cautioning against allowing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to "sabotage diplomacy," as a delicate ceasefire emerged after 40 days of conflict.
In a message shared on the social media platform X, Araghchi stated, "Netanyahu's criminal trial is set to resume on Sunday. A regional ceasefire, including Lebanon, could expedite his imprisonment."
He further remarked that should the United States permit Netanyahu to "sabotage diplomacy," it would ultimately be their decision. "We believe that would be unwise, but we are ready for it," he added.
Additionally, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, emphasized on X that "time is running out," asserting that Lebanon and the "resistance axis" are integral to the ceasefire.
On Thursday, Araghchi engaged in discussions about the ceasefire with his counterparts from Russia, France, Spain, and Germany through separate phone calls, as reported by the Xinhua news agency citing the Iranian Foreign Ministry's announcements.
During a conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Araghchi highlighted Iran's responsible stance, stating that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz—guaranteed for two weeks under the ceasefire—will be ensured if the United States upholds its obligations.
In his call with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, Araghchi expressed disappointment over Israel's violations of the ceasefire and its strikes on Lebanon, calling for international intervention. Barrot acknowledged the ceasefire and underscored the necessity to halt Israeli assaults on Lebanon.
Jose Manuel Albares, the Spanish Foreign Minister, condemned the attacks on Iran as "illegal," urging all involved parties to remain committed to diplomatic efforts.
A two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran commenced on Wednesday, with peace negotiations set to begin later this week in Islamabad, Pakistan. The Iranian delegation will reportedly be led by Qalibaf.
Israel has stated that the ceasefire does not extend to the situation in Lebanon, a claim that Iran and mediator Pakistan contest. Just hours after the ceasefire was implemented, Israel executed its largest single-day offensive on Lebanon, resulting in over 300 fatalities and more than 1,100 injuries.