On October 13, 2024, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid in Baghdad to discuss ongoing regional developments. The meeting focused on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon, exacerbated by the actions of the Israeli government.
During the discussions, Araghchi expressed strong condemnation and concern over the ongoing violence in Gaza and the expansion of Israeli military actions into Lebanon. He emphasized the moral and humanitarian responsibility of regional countries to alleviate the suffering of the people in these areas.
Araghchi highlighted Iran's efforts to assist Lebanon and commended Iraq for its humanitarian support and acceptance of Lebanese refugees. He criticized the Israeli regime for severe violations of humanitarian norms, particularly citing recent airstrikes on Iranian Red Crescent humanitarian centers at the Lebanon-Syria border, which he labeled as war crimes.
The Iranian minister warned that the escalation of Israeli aggression poses a serious threat to regional peace and security, urging all countries to prevent a full-scale conflict in the region. He noted a growing consensus among regional nations to halt the ongoing atrocities committed by Israel.
President Rashid reaffirmed Iraq's principled stance in support of the Palestinian and Lebanese people against occupation, calling for increased cooperation among Islamic nations to deter aggressors. He also acknowledged Iran's diplomatic initiatives aimed at mobilizing regional and international organizations against the Israeli threat.
In a related press conference, Araghchi reiterated Iran's commitment to providing aid to displaced individuals in Lebanon and Syria, while warning that the ongoing conflict could lead to a broader energy crisis if it expands further.
The diplomatic engagement between Iran and Iraq occurs amid heightened tensions in the region, with both countries seeking to navigate their relationships carefully while addressing the threats posed by Israel.