Why it matters:
This visit marks the continuation of Iran’s diplomatic normalization campaign across the Arab world, particularly with Egypt, a country that had minimal direct ties with Tehran for over a decade. The talks come at a time when both nations face common concerns over the Israeli genocide in Gaza, regional security, and ongoing U.S.-Iran indirect negotiations.
The big picture:
This is Araghchi’s third trip to Cairo since taking office in 2023.
His initial visit last fall was the first by an Iranian foreign minister to Egypt in 12 years, and he later accompanied President Masoud Pezeshkian to the D-8 summit in Cairo in January.
The visit follows a high-level meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, indicating warming ties at the presidential level as well.
What they’re saying:
“With the current state of the region, especially the developments in occupied Palestine, dialogue between Iran and Egypt is both natural and necessary,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei.
Esmail Baghaei (Iran MFA Spokesman): “Over the past year and a half, senior-level contacts between Iran and Egypt have increased significantly. This trip is part of Iran’s broader neighborhood policy aimed at strengthening relations with Islamic and regional countries.”
On Palestine: Baghaei confirmed that the Israeli genocide in Gaza and the broader crisis in occupied Palestine were key items on the agenda.
On Iran-U.S. talks: “We have consistently kept our neighbors informed on indirect negotiations with the United States, and this trip will include discussions on that track as well.”
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty: “We support diplomatic solutions to peacefully resolve the Iranian nuclear file, and we hope dialogue will lead to a lasting agreement.”
Go deeper:
As Gaza remains under siege and the West's hostility towards Iran continues, Tehran is trying to consolidate regional support by strengthening ties with key Arab nations. Egypt, traditionally a U.S. ally and a heavyweight in Arab diplomacy, offers Iran a critical diplomatic channel. This outreach also reflects Iran’s desire to counter isolation efforts by expanding bilateral relations.
Mojtaba Darabi
