Moscow: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived in Moscow for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the recent military strikes by Israel and the United States on nuclear sites in Iran.
According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi is scheduled to engage in consultations with Putin and senior Russian officials on Monday. The agenda is expected to cover regional and international issues in the aftermath of the attacks, highlighting the escalating tensions in the area.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed concern over the damage to Iranian nuclear sites, particularly the Fordo facility, following the US strikes. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized the potential threat to the global nuclear non-proliferation regime during an emergency session of the UN Security Council. Grossi stated that the current inability to assess the extent of underground damage at Fordo is alarming and could lead to a broader conflict.
French President Emmanuel Macron has also weighed in on the situation, cautioning against a purely military response to the US strikes on Iran. Macron stressed the importance of de-escalation and advocated for a return to diplomatic and technical discussions as the only viable path to achieving lasting peace in the region.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned of a "perilous turn" in the region due to the US bombings, urging all parties involved to prioritize diplomacy and exercise restraint. Meanwhile, a senior advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader has issued a warning to regional countries, stating that any nation allowing US use of its territory for attacks on Iran will be considered a legitimate target.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned the US and Israeli attacks on Iran in a draft resolution following its 51st Council of Foreign Ministers session in Istanbul. Similarly, Germany, France, and the UK have jointly urged Iran to refrain from actions that could further destabilize the region.
In a separate incident, a member of the ISIS terrorist group attacked a church in Damascus, resulting in multiple casualties. This event underscores the volatile security situation in the wider region.
South Africa's presidency has also expressed concern over the US involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict, reflecting global apprehensions about the potential for escalation following the US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.