In a telephone conversation on Saturday, Araqchi and his Austrian counterpart Beate Meinl-Reisinger talked about the regional developments and the security and economic consequences of the war imposed by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran.
Meinl-Reisinger expressed concern over the broader impact of the conflict on global security and the economy, underscoring the importance of resorting to diplomacy to bring the war to an end. She also announced Austria’s readiness to offer good offices to help de-escalate the situation.
Araqchi, for his part, elaborated on crimes committed by the United States and the Zionist regime during 35 days of military aggression against Iran. He stressed that all governments bear responsibility to condemn blatant violations of international law, including war crimes and terrorist acts targeting Iran’s industrial and production infrastructure, as well as schools, hospitals, and universities.
The Iranian foreign minister reaffirmed that the Islamic Republic is determined to use all its capabilities to defend its sovereignty, national interests, and territorial integrity.
He also criticized the stance of certain European countries, accusing them of focusing solely on the economic consequences of the war while ignoring the illegal and criminal nature of US aggression.
Araqchi stated that the current situation in the region, including developments in the Strait of Hormuz, is a direct result of the unlawful war by the United States and Israel, adding that the international community must act responsibly to hold the aggressors accountable.
Referring to measures taken by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, Araqchi said these actions are in line with international law and aimed at preventing aggressors and their partners from exploiting the waterway for hostile purposes. He added that non-hostile vessels can coordinate with Iran to ensure safe passage through the strait.
The two foreign ministers also discussed several consular matters and emphasized the continuation of diplomatic engagement between Iran and Austria at various levels.
The US and the Israeli regime launched a large-scale unprovoked military campaign against Iran following the assassination of then Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, along with several senior military commanders and civilians on February 28.
The attacks have involved extensive aerial strikes on both military and civilian locations across Iran, causing significant casualties and widespread damage to infrastructure.
In response, the Iranian Armed Forces have carried out retaliatory operations, targeting American and Israeli positions in the occupied territories and at regional bases with waves of missiles and drones.