Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday warned the United States against allowing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ‘kill diplomacy’, as a fragile ceasefire followed weeks of intense conflict in the region.
In a post on social media platform X, Araghchi linked recent developments to Netanyahu’s ongoing legal challenges, suggesting that a broader regional ceasefire, including Lebanon, could accelerate political consequences for the Israeli leader. He cautioned that if Washington permits diplomacy to collapse, it would be a deliberate choice, adding that Iran is prepared for such an outcome.
Netanyahu’s criminal trial resumes on Sun. A region-wide ceasefire, incl in Lebanon, would hasten his jailing.
If the U S. wishes to crater its economy by letting Netanyahu kill diplomacy, that would ultimately be its choice. We think that would be dumb but are prepared for it.
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) April 9, 2026
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf also stressed urgency, stating that time is running out and emphasising that Lebanon and the so-called resistance axis remain integral to the ceasefire framework.
Araghchi held separate discussions with several global counterparts, including Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, highlighting Iran’s commitment to responsible engagement. He noted that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, assured for two weeks, would depend on US adherence to its obligations.
In talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, Araghchi criticised alleged ceasefire violations and called for international intervention, while Barrot underscored the need to halt attacks on Lebanon.
Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares described recent strikes as unlawful and urged continued commitment to diplomacy.
A two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran came into effect on Wednesday, with peace talks expected to commence in Islamabad later this week.
Differences persist, as Israel maintains that the truce does not extend to Lebanon—a stance contested by Iran and mediator Pakistan.
Shortly after the ceasefire began, Israeli strikes in Lebanon reportedly caused significant casualties, further straining the fragile agreement.
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