US policy stalls diplomacy, not lack of mediators: Iran foreign minister

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi shakes hand with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi (left) in Tehran on July 23, 2026

Tehran, IRNA – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed the necessity for intermediaries in communications with Washington, asserting that the primary obstacle to progress is not a lack of channels, but the United States’ irrational, expansionist, and hegemonic approach.

Speaking on the sidelines of a reception for visiting Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi in Tehran on Thursday, FM Araghchi addressed speculation regarding Baghdad’s potential role as a diplomatic conduit following the prime minister’s recent trip to Washington.

Iran does not have any shortage of mediators, Araghchi stated, adding that the issue is not the mechanism of message exchange; the core problem lies in Washington’s refusal to respect the Iranian nation and its sovereign interests. He emphasized that a change in US policy, rather than back-channel messaging, is the prerequisite for any diplomatic progress.

The visit by Prime Minister al-Zaidi focuses on regional de-escalation and bilateral cooperation. According to Iraqi government spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi, the discussions encompass trade, transportation, and natural gas imports.

Beyond high-stakes diplomacy, Araghchi confirmed that Iran-Iraq security agreements are proceeding to an acceptable degree, though he noted ongoing concerns in specific border areas that require further attention. He also addressed the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage, assuring that security and logistical coordination between Tehran and Baghdad are well-managed.

Iran has been coordinating with Iraq for months, Araghchi noted, expressing confidence that this year’s massive religious gathering will proceed with utmost grandeur, undeterred by regional tensions.