Iran Rejects Summit Invitation, Citing Hostile Actions and Sanctions by Adversaries
In a firm declaration of foreign policy principles, a senior Iranian official has stated that the Islamic Republic cannot engage in dialogue with nations that actively threaten and sanction the Iranian people, despite a professed willingness for diplomatic interaction.
A Defiant Stance
The statement was made by Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, via his personal account on the X social media platform. He expressed Iran’s gratitude for the invitation from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to attend the Sharm El-Sheikh summit.
“However,” Araghchi wrote, “despite a desire for diplomatic engagement, neither President Pezeshkian nor I can enter into talks with those who have attacked the people of Iran and continue to threaten and sanction us.”
Support for Palestinian Rights and Regional Peace
Alongside this rejection, the minister underscored Iran’s support for initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict in Gaza. “Iran welcomes any initiative that ends the Israeli genocide in Gaza and leads to the expulsion of the occupying forces,” he stated.
He further emphasized that “The Palestinians are entirely entitled to achieve their fundamental right to self-determination,” adding that all countries have a duty, now more than ever, to support this legitimate and legal demand.
Positioning Iran as a Force for Stability
Minister Araghchi sought to position the Islamic Republic as a constructive regional actor. “Iran has always been and will remain a key force for peace in the region,” he asserted. “Contrary to the genocidal Israeli regime, Iran does not seek endless wars, especially at the expense of its alleged allies, but rather seeks sustainable peace, prosperity, and cooperation.”
Background of the Decision
The official response was formalized following a report presented by Araghchi at the 118th session of the Iranian cabinet, chaired by President Pezeshkian. The report detailed the formal invitation from Egypt for the president’s attendance at the Sharm El-Sheikh summit and the subsequent negative response from the Islamic Republic of Iran. Following this decision, the invitation was extended to the Foreign Minister himself, leading to his public explanation of the nation’s stance.