Middle East Live: Iran Multiplies Diplomatic Consultations, Abbas Araghchi in Moscow

In a significant diplomatic maneuver, Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, has arrived in Moscow, seeking to bolster international support amidst escalating tensions with the United States. This visit underscores Iran's strategy of engaging in a 'diplomatic ballet' to counter Washington's pressure. The Iranian embassy in Russia has indicated a potential meeting with President Vladimir Putin, signaling the importance Tehran places on its relationship with Moscow as a bulwark against perceived 'hegemonic global forces' and Western unilateralism.

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We are no longer going to have direct negotiations with Iran.

The backdrop to these diplomatic efforts is the complete breakdown of direct negotiations with the US. President Donald Trump has explicitly stated that direct talks are off the table, adopting a stance that Iran must initiate contact. This hardline position, coupled with the ongoing US blockade of Iranian ports, has led to Iranian threats of military retaliation, particularly concerning the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The situation is further complicated by recent Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon, which have resulted in significant casualties and accusations of truce violations from both sides, including Hezbollah.

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If they want to talk, they can come to us, or they can call us, we have very good secure phone lines.

From Iran's perspective, as articulated by its diplomats and reflected in this reporting from Le Temps, the current international climate is one of defiance and strategic alliance-building. The narrative emphasizes Iran's right to pursue its interests and resist external domination. The cooperation with Russia is portrayed not merely as a tactical move but as a shared commitment to a multipolar world order, free from Western hegemony. This framing is crucial for domestic audiences, reinforcing a sense of national resilience and principled opposition to US policy. The international media often focuses on the nuclear aspect or the potential for conflict, whereas Iranian coverage highlights the diplomatic struggle for international legitimacy and the formation of strategic partnerships as key elements of its foreign policy. The emphasis is on Iran's agency and its efforts to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape through diplomacy and strategic alliances, rather than solely reacting to US pressure.

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37 ships have been rerouted since the beginning of the blockade of Iranian ports.