Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has described the current ceasefire with Israel as "fragile," emphasizing Tehran's readiness to respond if tensions escalate. Speaking exclusively to CGTN after attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Tianjin, Araghchi reiterated that "war is not Iran's wish" despite heightened regional volatility.
The remarks come amid growing international scrutiny over Middle East stability, a key concern for Asian markets and global energy security. Analysts suggest Iran's cautious stance reflects broader efforts to balance regional influence while maintaining economic ties with SCO members, including the Chinese mainland and India.
The SCO meeting in Tianjin – attended by foreign ministers from eight member states – focused on counterterrorism cooperation and regional connectivity projects. Araghchi's comments underscore how Middle Eastern geopolitics increasingly intersect with Asia's security architecture, particularly as China expands its Belt and Road Initiative investments.
For investors monitoring crude oil prices and supply chain stability, Araghchi's warning highlights persistent risks in the Strait of Hormuz, through which 21% of global petroleum liquids pass. The development also holds significance for the Asian diaspora, with many communities maintaining cultural and economic links to both Middle Eastern and Asian markets.
