Iran FM slams U.S. veto of UN resolution in phone call with Chinese counterpart

December 12, 2023 - 22:58

TEHRAN – Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has expressed discontent over the U.S. veto of a UN resolution overseeing the cessation of hostilities in Gaza, during a phone call with his Chinese counterpart.

The phone call is the two foreign ministers’ second since the outbreak of the Israel-Gaza war – as fears persist that a second front could open along the Lebanon border.

Reiterating hopes for ceasefire in Gaza, the top Iranian diplomat underscored China's constructive efforts toward fostering peace and stability in the region. He emphasized the urgency of taking an active role in putting an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

"Regional security is crucial for all of us," stated Amir Abdollahian, highlighting Iran's active engagement in various consultations with neighboring countries. This underlined the nation's commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at addressing regional challenges.

Raising concerns about the escalating scope of conflict in the region, the Iranian Foreign Minister stressed the imperative of immediately halting attacks on Gaza. He warned of a potential explosion in the region beyond anyone's control if swift action is not taken. Amir Abdollahian lamented the apparent lack of understanding on the part of the United States regarding the dangers associated with further escalation of conflict. Notably, he pointed out that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, aligned with the White House, appears solely interested in perpetuating war and genocide, asserting that the regional situation is on the brink of transformation.

Chinese Foreign Minister echoed these concerns, expressing regret over the U.S. veto of the ceasefire resolution in Gaza. He emphasized the critical importance of promptly establishing a ceasefire and facilitating humanitarian aid—a stance crucial for China.

Looking ahead, the Chinese Foreign Minister expressed hope that the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session would serve as an opportune platform to broker a ceasefire in the region.

Amir Abdollahian also called for strengthening communication, mutual trust and cooperation with Beijing following the agreements reached between the two state leaders in February and August.

Iran, Russia foreign ministers hold telephone conversation on Gaza developments

The Iranian Foreign Minister also discussed with Sergey Lavrov, the Foreign Minister of Russia, and delved into various topics concerning bilateral and regional relations, including the recent developments in the war against Gaza.

During this telephone exchange, Amir Abdollahian, expressed regret over the U.S. veto of the United Nations Security Council resolution and evaluated this action as permission for the continuation of the genocide against the residents of Gaza by the United States. He underscored the necessity of immediate action to halt war crimes and increase humanitarian aid to the narrow strip of Gaza.

Lavrov, expressing satisfaction with the ongoing bilateral cooperation, emphasized the need for continued international efforts to achieve a ceasefire, increase humanitarian aid to the residents of Gaza, and establish an independent Palestinian state in light of the current developments in the occupied territories of Palestine.

Iran's Foreign Minister, referencing the recent meeting between the presidents of Iran and Russia in Moscow and the review of the agenda for bilateral cooperation, emphasized the importance of continuing negotiations and contacts between high-ranking officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Russian Federation.

Amir Abdollahian stresses need for concerted effort to stop Gaza war

In a telephone discussion with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Amir Abdollahian particularly addressed the ongoing Zionist atrocities against the people of Palestine in Gaza and the West Bank.

During this conversation, Iran's Foreign Minister expressed concern over the unequivocal support of the United States for the Zionist regime. 

He emphasized the need for maximum efforts to halt these atrocities, cease the genocide in the narrow strip of Gaza through diplomatic initiatives, and urgently provide assistance to the Palestinians to alleviate their suffering.

Amir Abdollahian underscored the paramount importance of deepening and expanding relations between Iran and Turkey. He also highlighted the significance of the upcoming meeting between the Presidents of the two countries.

The Foreign Minister of Turkey acknowledged his country's diplomatic efforts aimed at establishing a ceasefire in the war against Gaza, emphasizing that Palestine is currently the focal point of the Islamic world.

Both Iranian and Turkish Foreign Ministers stressed the importance of continuing and expanding negotiations and diplomatic efforts at the regional and international levels to exert pressure on the Zionist regime. Their goal is to secure acceptance of a ceasefire and the cessation of the war in Gaza.
MAS
 

Leave a Comment