Iran praises Gulf security talks

Diplomatic efforts are accelerating in the Middle East as regional leaders seek to manage a volatile security environment. These moves come amid ongoing hostilities and a push for local control over defense matters.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described a meeting in Tehran on Monday as a move toward peace. The gathering included high-level security officials from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey. Araghchi posted on social media that the session advanced dialogue. He emphasized that regional nations should manage their own security. He argued against the military presence of extra-regional powers in the area. The minister did not provide specific details about the content of the discussions.

The talks occurred while speculation grew about a return to full-scale war. Saudi Arabia continues to face repeated attacks from Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. During the conflict that began on Feb. 28, Iran attacked neighboring Gulf Arab countries. Tehran stated it targeted U.S. facilities and interests. Gulf nations countered that Iran also struck civilian facilities and infrastructure.

Egypt is also working to de-escalate tensions in the region. Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held telephone calls with Saudi Prince Faisal bin Farhan and UAE official Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The discussions focused on political solutions to the current crisis. Egypt's Foreign Ministry confirmed these contacts were part of an effort to contain the situation.

Cairo has pledged military support for Riyadh to defend against Houthi attacks. The country's highest security body made the decision earlier this month. Lawmakers approved the move in a closed-door vote earlier this week. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi insisted the support will be strictly defensive in nature. The Egyptian government aims to help its neighbor while managing the broader regional conflict.