Iran’s intensive diplomacy in NY: From regional consultations to pursuing dialogue
Tehran - BORNA - Over the course of a week in New York, the top Iranian diplomat engaged in over 45 high-level meetings with his counterparts from the region, Europe, and across the globe, as well as senior UN officials.
Consultations with neighbors and regional states A primary focus of Araghchi's agenda was engaging with neighboring and regional countries. He held talks with the foreign ministers of Iraq, Oman, Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, India, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan, as well as Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. Discussions centered on Persian Gulf security, economic and commercial cooperation, and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions.
Strait of Hormuz: A central theme
The security of the Strait of Hormuz emerged as a major talking point during the delegation's engagements. In his meetings, Araghchi detailed Iran's position on the strategic waterway and the necessity of regional mechanisms for maritime security. He stressed that US military and aggressive actions remain the root cause of insecurity in the region and the Strait of Hormuz.
Araghchi also elaborated on Tehran's conditions for the return of normal shipping during a press stakeout at the UN headquarters, emphasizing the continuation of diplomacy. Concurrently, indirect communications between Iran and the US continued through Qatari mediation, addressing the ongoing war and the status of the Strait of Hormuz.
Dialogues with Europe
The Iranian foreign minister dedicated a significant portion of his schedule to European counterparts, meeting with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and the foreign ministers of France, the Netherlands, Austria, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and the UK. Beyond bilateral relations, Araghchi strongly criticized Europe's double standards regarding developments in West Asia and their silence in the face of US military actions against Iran.
Engagements with Russia, Ukraine, and beyond
Araghchi's itinerary included a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, where the two discussed diplomatic trends, the Strait of Hormuz, and efforts to pave the way for renewed dialogue. He also met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha to explore ways to prevent the escalation of tensions between Tehran and Kyiv. Additional meetings were held with top diplomats from various Asian, African, and Latin American nations.
Media diplomacy
Alongside official meetings, Araghchi utilized the US media landscape to project Iran's narrative. In a notable interview with the American program Meet the Press, he directly addressed the US public regarding the ongoing war, the Strait of Hormuz, and negotiations. He reiterated the necessity of halting military actions, respecting Iran's rights, and fostering suitable conditions for diplomacy.
Utilizing UN capacities and ECO summit preparations
The Iranian delegation prioritized engagements with UN leadership, including meetings with Secretary-General António Guterres and the President of the 81st UNGA, emphasizing the UN's role in maintaining international peace and security.
Furthermore, Araghchi addressed the 27th informal Council of Ministers of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in New York. He underscored the need to bolster regional economic ties, transit, and energy cooperation. According to the outlined schedule, Iran is set to host the 18th ECO Summit in Tehran in early December 2026.
Concluding a week of intensive diplomatic efforts, Araghchi and his accompanying delegation—which included Deputy Foreign Ministers Majid Takht-Ravanchi and Kazem Gharibabadi, alongside Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei—departed New York for Tehran on Tuesday.
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