Iran calls Tehran talks a peace step

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared the Monday security talks in Tehran a move toward dialogue and regional peace.

The meeting brought together high-level officials from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey. Araghchi posted his assessment on social media, stating that nations should manage their own security. He specifically opposed the military presence of what he called "extra-regional powers." The minister did not provide further details regarding the substance of the discussions.

These talks occurred while speculation grows that the conflict, which began on Feb. 28, could expand into all-out war. During that earlier phase of the conflict, Iran attacked neighboring Gulf Arab states. Tehran claimed it targeted U.S. facilities and interests. The Gulf countries countered that Iranian strikes also hit civilian facilities and infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia continues to face repeated attacks from Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. This pressure has driven diplomatic efforts in Cairo to de-escalate the crisis. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held telephone calls with Saudi and Emirati counterparts to discuss political solutions.

Abdelatty spoke with Saudi Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry confirmed these contacts were part of a broader effort to contain the regional crisis amid rising tensions.

Egypt has pledged military support to Saudi Arabia to help defend the kingdom against Houthi attacks. The country's highest security body made the decision this month. Egyptian lawmakers subsequently approved the move in a closed-door vote earlier this week. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi insisted that this support would remain strictly defensive.