Iran FM visits Tunisia, calls for alliance of Islamic nations
In his official state visit in Tunisia on September 10th, the Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for an alliance of Islamic nations, during a press conference at the Iranian embassy, according to Tunisie Numerique.
At the press conference, Araghchi covered several important topics – including reflections upon Iran’s war with Israel earlier in the year, the nuclear programme issue, strengthening Tunisian-Iranian ties and the need for Islamic unity against Israel.
In June, Iranian nuclear bases were attacked by both the US and Israel over fears Iran was developing a nuclear weapon programme. Araghchi reflected upon the attacks by stating: “The only path forward is to give diplomacy sufficient space to reach an agreement.”
Araghchi attempted to project Iran’s resilience in the face of the attacks. He said: “Buildings can be rebuilt, equipment can be replaced, but knowledge cannot be destroyed.”
On August 28th, Germany, France and the UK started the process of placing sanctions on Iran due to its nuclear endeavours.
During the conference, Araghchi conveyed hope that sanctions on Iran would not impact the country’s new deal with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He said European requests for repeated investigations into Iran’s nuclear capabilities undermines the legitimacy of the agency.
Araghchi also discussed Iran’s nuclear development – stating that several nuclear facilities had faced critical damage. Reportedly, this has meant that new procedures between the IAEA and Tehran, relevant to present circumstances, have been approved.
At the press conference, Araghchi also revealed a new development in Tunisia-Iran relations – the reintroduction of 15-day tourist visas and direct flights between the two nations.
Araghchi’s concluded the conference by reflecting on Israel’s recent attacks on Islamic nations. He heavily criticised the Israeli attacks on Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Qatar.
He called for Islamic nations to completely sever relations with Israel and to start exerting pressure to challenge its conduct.
Araghchi reminded the international community that “[t]he area under Israeli control in Syria now exceeds that of Gaza.” He said: “Regional states should be deeply concerned about Israel’s practices.”
Tunisie Numerique, Maghrebi.org
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