Iran, Turkmenistan Hold Talks Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Ashgabat and was received by Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov. 

The two officials held initial talks focused on the regional crisis following recent military strikes against Iran.

Araghchi described the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iranian targets as unjustified and illegal, calling them a reflection of Israel’s “weakness and desperation.” 

Image Source: aaragchi on X

He reiterated that Iran does not seek to escalate tensions but defended Tehran’s recent missile strike on the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar as a legitimate response to what he termed America’s violation of Iran’s sovereignty. 

Araghchi warned that Iran remains prepared to respond to any future U.S. actions.

In response, Meredov reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s position as a neutral neighbor, opposing the use of force and expressing disapproval of the initial attacks on Iran. 

He stressed that peaceful dialogue remains the preferred path for resolving conflicts.

The meeting highlights Iran’s ongoing diplomatic outreach as tensions in the region continue to escalate following Israel’s initial strikes on June 13, U.S. military involvement, and Iran’s subsequent retaliatory actions.