ElBaradei: Iran Cannot Be Ignored in Regional Security Framework

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, former Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Mohamed ElBaradei, has stressed that after half a century of devastating wars in the Middle East, it is time for the Persian Gulf states to recognize that their security is primarily achieved through a joint security structure amongst themselves. He stated that this security structure should be formed with the participation of regional countries based on dialogue, confidence-building, and cooperation, rather than relying on foreign forces consistently pursuing their own interests. Crucially, he highlighted the understanding that Iran is and will remain their neighbor in the region and cannot be sidelined or ignored in a permanent regional security arrangement.

ElBaradei further asserted that the establishment of a regional security structure with the participation of all countries, including Turkey, is the sole path to achieving peace and stability. This, however, is contingent upon the end of Israeli occupation in Palestine and the creation of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the region.