Iran Calls For The Formation Of A 'Shanghai Regional Security Forum'

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has proposed the formation of a Shanghai Regional Security Forum. The proposed forum would involve the defense and intelligence agencies of member countries to address growing shared threats, including terrorism, extremism, organized crime, and cyberattacks. This initiative aims to bolster regional cooperation and security, as well as foster a unified approach to emerging global threats.

Abbas Araghchi condemned Israeli airstrikes on Iranian soil, which have resulted in more than 6,850 casualties, including a significant number of women and children. He referred to these attacks as acts of aggression and called for international attention to the devastating human cost of these airstrikes. According to Araghchi, these casualties reflect the disproportionate impact on civilians in conflict zones and are a clear violation of human rights.

The Iranian Foreign Minister also addressed the Israeli and American attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities, calling them direct violations of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). He emphasized that these actions contravened multiple resolutions from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and United Nations Security Council Resolution 487, which prohibit such military strikes on peaceful nuclear facilities. He argued that these attacks further escalated tensions in an already volatile region.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) ministers have gathered in Tianjin, China, to discuss regional security issues, with the attendance of foreign ministers from Russia and Pakistan. The summit provides an important platform for dialogue on key issues affecting the region, including counterterrorism efforts, economic cooperation, and the need for regional stability.

Iran emphasized the urgent need for a collective effort within the SCO to address regional challenges, including organized crime and cyber threats.

The SCO summit reflects growing geopolitical tensions, and Araghchi's call for the establishment of a Shanghai Regional Security Forum signals Iran's intent to lead in shaping regional security policies. Cooperation within the SCO is seen as crucial for addressing collective threats and enhancing regional peace.

As the world witnesses rising security challenges, particularly in the Middle East, Iran's proposal for enhanced multilateral cooperation represents a critical step toward addressing shared risks. The collaboration of SCO member states could be pivotal in responding to regional crises.

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