Iran, Austrian FMs Discuss Bilateral Ties and Regional Issues

In a phone conversation held on Thursday evening, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Austrian Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger discussed bilateral ties and regional issues. Araghchi outlined recent developments, including talks between Iran and Oman regarding future management mechanisms for the Strait of Hormuz. He attributed the current instability to "illegal aggression" by the United States and Israel, asserting that despite Iran entering diplomatic discussions in good faith—referencing an understanding signed on June 18—the U.S. violated the agreement by imposing a maritime blockade and conducting widespread strikes on Iranian targets, thereby exacerbating tensions in the strategic waterway.

Highlighting ongoing military actions by Israel in Gaza and Lebanon, Araghchi deplored the European Union's "passive stance" and the support provided by certain European nations to Israel, calling it a key driving force behind continued conflict in the region. He urged the EU to fundamentally reconsider its approach toward West Asia while also condemning what he termed the EU's "interfering stance" regarding Iran's internal affairs and its alleged backing of anti-Iranian elements.

For her part, Austrian Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger briefed Araghchi on her country's stance on the regional crisis, stressing the critical need to restore stability and security through diplomatic channels and urging a return to normal conditions across the region.

According to Mehr News Agency (MNA), the call underscored the ongoing diplomatic efforts between Iran and European nations amid heightened regional tensions.