Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, our Foreign Minister, answered reporters' questions about Iran-Lebanon relations and the Strait of Hormuz during the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Baghdad.
Iran-Lebanon Relations
Araghchi stated at this meeting that his meeting with Youssef Raji, the Foreign Minister of Lebanon, was very respectful and candid. He clarified that the two countries have differing views on how to resolve Lebanon's issues, but they emphasized the importance of bilateral relations. Our Foreign Minister noted that the Islamic Republic of Iran is interested in establishing extensive political, economic, and cultural relations with Lebanon, and internal issues of this country should be left to the Lebanese themselves.
Araghchi added: "If Lebanese groups make decisions, that is their own matter, and the Islamic Republic of Iran will not oppose it." He also referred to the issue of the Iranian ambassador in Lebanon and reported on efforts to improve relations between the two countries.
Islamic Cooperation Organization Meeting
Our Foreign Minister spoke about the meeting of the foreign ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation held in Baghdad, stating that this conference was chaired by Iraq and attended by about 20 foreign ministers. He expressed concern over the diminishing importance of this organization in recent years and emphasized the need to strengthen its performance, saying: "We hope that with the election of a new Secretary-General, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation can play a more constructive role in resolving disputes among Islamic countries."
Araghchi also referred to serious discussions about Yemen at this conference and stated that they have tried to reflect the views of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the resolutions. He clarified that currently, the resolutions have not yet been approved and hopes that fairness and balance will be maintained in them.
Iran's Conditions for Opening the Strait of Hormuz
In response to questions about Iran's plan and the U.S. reaction, Araghchi stated that Iran's conditions are clear and have been presented to the American side in the form of a seven-day plan. He added: "If the American side is sincere, the Strait of Hormuz will be opened on the sixth day." He emphasized that these conditions include matters that the U.S. had previously committed to in negotiations.
Our Foreign Minister also commented on recent threats against Iran, stating: "We will not bow to threats in any way and are prepared to defend ourselves." He emphasized that the Islamic Republic of Iran is also ready for diplomacy, provided that this path is dignified and honorable.
