Doha: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Israel’s actions are ‘destabilizing’ the entire region, urging for Tel Aviv to be held accountable and for sanctions to be imposed over violations it commits in countries across the region, particularly in Palestine.

According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi’s remarks were made during a speech at the opening of the 17th edition of the Al Jazeera Forum, held in Doha from Feb. 7 to 9, under the theme ‘The Palestinian Cause and the Regional Balance of Power in the Context of an Emerging Multipolar World.’ He emphasized that the Palestinian cause is the defining question of justice in West Asia and beyond, serving as a strategic and moral compass for the region.

Araghchi criticized what he described as a ‘moral failure’ by those who witness and accept Israeli violations against Palestinians. He highlighted the situation in Gaza, characterizing it as more than just war, but rather as the deliberate destruction of civilian life on a massive scale, equating it to genocide. He warned that if the Gaza issue is resolved through destruction and forced displacement, it could set a precedent for the West Bank, leading to annexation becoming policy.

The Iranian foreign minister stressed that Israel’s expansionist agenda has directly and destabilizingly impacted the security of all countries in the region. He called for Israel to be held accountable for its violations and for sanctions to be imposed. Araghchi also urged the international community to end the ‘Israeli occupation’ and work toward establishing a Palestinian state, emphasizing the need for the Arab and Islamic worlds to act to prevent the region from being reshaped by force.