BAGHDAD – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared on Oct 13 that the country would enforce “no red lines” when defending its people and national interests, while also intensifying efforts to prevent an all-out war in the region. His remarks come amidst rising tensions with Israel following an Iranian missile strike on Oct 1, which Tehran claimed was in retaliation for the killing of militant leaders and a Revolutionary Guards general.
“While we have made tremendous efforts in recent days to contain an all-out war in our region, I say it clearly that we have no red lines in defending our people and interests,” Mr. Araghchi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The foreign minister arrived in Baghdad for talks with Iraqi officials as part of Iran’s broader diplomatic efforts ahead of a potential Israeli counter-attack. At a joint press conference with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Mr. Araghchi emphasized that although Iran is prepared for war, it seeks peace and a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon.
Iraq, meanwhile, expressed opposition to the escalation. Mr. Hussein stated, “The continuation of the war and its expansion towards the Islamic Republic of Iran and (Israel’s) exploitation of Iraqi airspace as a corridor is completely unacceptable and rejected.”
Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has vowed a strong response to Iran’s missile strikes, which he described as “deadly, precise, and surprising.” Following his visit to Iraq, Mr. Araghchi is scheduled to head to Oman for further consultations, continuing Iran’s diplomatic engagements aimed at reducing tensions. Earlier, the foreign minister held talks with Qatari and Saudi leaders, focusing on mediation efforts for ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon.