Iran Responds to Netanyahu's Threat Amid Regional Tensions

According to SAEDNEWS, Iran's new Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has made it clear that Tehran is unfazed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's threats to escalate conflict in the region. In a recent phone call with Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, Araghchi emphasized that while Iran does not aim to spread conflict, it is not intimidated by external threats.

The conversation, which lasted about half an hour on Wednesday, touched on the rising tensions following the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last month. Iran has expressed a desire for revenge against Israel over this incident, yet officials signaled that the timing and method of retaliation will be determined based on developments in ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding the Gaza Strip.

According to NHK, Kamikawa stressed the importance of de-escalating the situation, noting that such escalation would not be beneficial for the region or the international community. She urged Iran to exercise restraint and to encourage its allies, particularly Lebanon's Hezbollah, to do the same.

In response, Araghchi reiterated that Iran is not seeking to escalate tensions in West Asia. He stated, "As we have said many times, we are not afraid of an increase in tension in the region, but unlike the Zionist regime, Iran does not want the spread of tension and conflict in the region." He further pointed to Israel’s "provocative actions"—including Haniyeh's assassination and Netanyahu’s aggressive stance—as the primary catalysts for rising tensions.

The two foreign ministers affirmed their commitment to maintaining communication, reflecting the longstanding friendly relationship between Japan and Iran. After the discussion, Kamikawa informed reporters that she would push for diplomatic efforts to ease tensions while maintaining a sense of urgency.

Both sides emphasized the importance of continuing dialogues and exchanging viewpoints to enhance bilateral relations and foster regional cooperation amidst the complex geopolitical landscape.