TEHRAN – The foreign ministers of Iran and Oman have called for swift international intervention to halt what they describe as Israeli genocide and aggressive actions in Gaza and Lebanon.

This appeal was made during a meeting between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and his Omani counterpart, Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, in Muscat on Monday. 

The discussions centered on the escalating violence in the region, which has resulted from Israel’s military operations against Palestinians and Lebanese groups. Both ministers expressed deep concern over the potential expansion of the conflict and urged regional and international actors to intensify diplomatic efforts to preserve peace and prevent further destabilization. 

Araqchi’s visit to Oman is part of a broader diplomatic tour aimed at reducing tensions as Israel’s military campaigns in Lebanon and Gaza continue. The Iranian foreign minister has already visited Lebanon, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Iraq as part of efforts to coordinate regional responses to the unfolding crisis. 

During the talks, Araqchi reiterated Iran’s readiness for a "war situation," while emphasizing that Tehran is committed to pursuing peace in the region. In his separate meeting with Mohammed Abdulsalam, a senior representative of Yemen’s National Salvation Government, the focus remained on securing diplomatic solutions to regional conflicts.

Later in the day, Araqchi met with Omani Minister of the Royal Office Sultan bin Mohammed al-Numani to further discuss the latest developments in Gaza and Lebanon. 

Both sides agreed that Israel’s ongoing military operations are a primary cause of regional instability, and called for immediate international action to stop the violence. 

The ministers underscored the importance of continued consultations between neighboring countries to prevent further insecurity and promote peace.

‘Indirect Iran-US talks halted amid regional crisis’

During his visit, Araqchi also addressed the status of indirect talks between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman. The Iranian foreign minister revealed that these discussions have been suspended due to the current crisis in the region. He praised Oman’s past role in facilitating communication between Tehran and Washington, but noted that the current situation offers little opportunity for progress.

“There is no ground for talks at the moment until the regional crisis is resolved,” Araqchi said, adding that no messages were exchanged between the US and Iran during this visit. He emphasized that Tehran remains committed to diplomacy but is fully prepared for any potential conflict.

Iranian, Chinese FMs discuss West Asia developments in phone call

In addition to regional efforts, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Araqchi on Monday, where both parties discussed the worsening situation in West Asia. 

Wang emphasized China’s strategic relationship with Iran and called for increased diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. Araqchi welcomed China’s involvement and criticized the inaction of the United Nations Security Council, attributing it to US support for Israel.

The two diplomats also discussed bilateral relations and plans for a future meeting between the presidents of Iran and China at the upcoming BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia. Araqchi reiterated Iran’s desire for peace in Gaza and Lebanon and praised China’s efforts to promote stability in the region.