Iran Rejects US Pressure at SCO Meeting
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said Tehran will not submit to pressure or threats from the United States, as diplomatic efforts continue amid escalating military tensions in the Middle East.
Iran Rejects US Pressure Tactics
Speaking after a meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation foreign ministers in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, Araghchi said Iran would not respond to what he described as Washington’s language of force, pressure and intimidation.
Araghchi argued that the main obstacle to engagement was not the absence of diplomatic channels but the United States’ approach towards Iran. He said Tehran was neither afraid of threats nor prepared to abandon what it considers the legitimate interests of the Iranian people.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Central
The Iranian foreign minister said protecting Iran’s population and its interests in the Strait of Hormuz remained central to Tehran’s policy. The strategically important waterway is a major transit route for global oil and gas supplies.
Araghchi also confirmed discussions with Pakistan, which has been involved in mediation efforts between Iran and the United States. He said proposals and diplomatic initiatives were considered during the talks but maintained that negotiations could not proceed effectively under coercion.
China Supports Diplomatic Resolution
Araghchi held separate discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the SCO meeting. He described the exchanges as detailed and said coordination with Beijing and Moscow was continuing.
China has opposed the use or threat of military force and has backed Iran’s right to safeguard its sovereignty, security and legitimate interests. Beijing has also called for differences to be resolved through negotiations and offered to play a constructive role in promoting regional stability.
Araghchi urged SCO members to defend international law, national sovereignty and multilateral cooperation amid the continuing crisis.
