Tehran: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced Tehran's intention to enhance political and economic relations with Muslim countries, especially its neighbors. Araghchi made these remarks during a meeting at the 40th International Islamic Unity Conference, as shared on his Telegram account.

According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi emphasized the importance of fostering good relations with all Islamic countries and highlighted Iran's readiness to strengthen economic ties. He expressed a particular interest in developing relations with Egypt, indicating that there were no significant disagreements between Tehran and Cairo. Araghchi stated that Iran is prepared to restore relations whenever Egypt decides to move forward.

Addressing the situation in Lebanon, Araghchi conveyed Iran's willingness to engage with all political groups and factions while voicing concerns over certain Lebanese government policies. He expressed hope for more rationality from Lebanon's Foreign Ministry and reiterated Iran's desire to maintain traditionally good relations with African countries.

Araghchi underscored Iran's approach to the Islamic world as one based on unity, emphasizing the special importance of neighboring countries. On regional military tensions, he clarified that Iran's military actions have been in response to American aggression, targeting US positions in surrounding countries while avoiding attacks on Muslim neighbors.

He warned regional states that US bases on their territory could be targeted if the US attacked Iran, describing Iran's military response as legitimate self-defense against illegitimate aggression by the US and Israel. The ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington have persisted since the conflict's escalation in late February, with Iran retaliating against US military positions in allied Arab countries.

Despite a 14-point memorandum of understanding signed by Iran and the US in Islamabad, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, implementation has faced challenges. Tehran has accused Washington of not honoring its commitments, leading to renewed US military attacks and subsequent Iranian retaliatory strikes.