Russia proposes joint platform for sanctioned countries

Russian official Dmitry Medvedev visited Tehran to attend the funeral of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in a Feb. 28 attack. During his visit, Medvedev met with Iranian President Ebrahim Pezeşkiyan and discussed a proposal for a joint platform for countries facing sanctions.

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I conveyed President Vladimir Putin's message of condolence to the Iranian President and discussed with him the idea of creating a platform for countries under sanctions.

Medvedev stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin directly instructed him to attend the funeral and convey condolences. He also shared Putin's message with Pezeşkiyan and explored the idea of establishing a common platform for sanctioned nations. "Russia, Iran, China, and other countries can discuss and consult on creating a common platform for sanctioned countries to counter sanctions and restrictions," Medvedev said.

He further emphasized Iran's strategic power, noting its ability to close the Strait of Hormuz following the conflict initiated by the U.S. and Israel. Medvedev described the strait as a weapon for Iran, comparable in importance to nuclear weapons. He also pointed to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait as another significant strategic asset.

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Russia, Iran, China, and other countries can discuss and consult on creating a common platform for sanctioned countries to counter sanctions and restrictions.

While supporting the negotiation process between Russia and the U.S. regarding Iran, Medvedev acknowledged that reaching final agreements could be complex. He also indicated that Russia has proposals to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue through peaceful means.

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The Strait of Hormuz has now become a weapon for Iran, no less important than nuclear weapons, but there is another 'nuclear weapon,' and that is the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.