Tehran- IRAF, Araghchi today, February 7 described the Gaza crisis as an “overt genocide,” stating that what is unfolding in Palestine is not merely a conflict or a security fallout, but the “deliberate and large-scale destruction of civilians.” He said this reality has deeply wounded the global conscience and exposed the moral failure of powers that possess the ability to stop the catastrophe yet have instead sought to “justify or normalize” it.
Undermining the Global Legal Order and Creating a Dangerous Precedent
Referring to what he called the “unprecedented impunity” enjoyed by the Zionist regime in the face of international accountability, Iran’s foreign minister said this situation has weakened the global legal order and created a precedent whereby states enjoying political backing can “bomb civilians, besiege populations, and even carry out assassinations beyond their borders” while continuing to claim legitimacy.
He described this trend as a “global crisis” that goes beyond Palestine, effectively replacing law with force in international relations.
Regional Consequences and the Risk of the Gaza Model Spreading
In another part of his remarks, Araghchi stressed that the actions of the Israeli regime have affected the security of all countries in the region.
He warned that if the Gaza model—based on destruction and forced displacement—is accepted as a solution, “the West Bank will be the next target,” and territorial annexation will become an “official approach.”
He described this trajectory as part of a long-standing project known as “Greater Israel,” aimed at “redesigning the region based on the ambitions of a military occupier.”
“Doctrine of Dominance” and Efforts to Weaken Neighboring States
Araghchi said the expansionist project of the Zionist regime is built on maintaining Israel’s “military, intelligence, and strategic superiority,” which requires the “weakening of surrounding countries.”
He added that while Israel is allowed to freely expand its military arsenal, other countries are pressured to reduce their defensive capabilities or face sanctions and coercion for scientific progress and strengthening their national resilience.
According to him, this situation represents the imposition of “permanent inequality” and the formation of a “doctrine of dominance,” rather than genuine arms control or non-proliferation.
Call for Coordinated International Action
Stating that “expressions of concern are not enough,” Iran’s foreign minister called for the formulation of a coordinated legal, diplomatic, economic, and security strategy to confront the crisis.
He outlined five main pillars for action by the international community:
- Firm support for international legal mechanisms
- The imposition of real consequences for violations
- Targeted sanctions against Israel, including halting arms sales and suspending military cooperation
- Defining a political horizon based on ending the occupation, ensuring the right of return, and establishing an independent Palestinian state
- Coordinated action by regional countries to protect sovereignty and strengthen deterrence
He also urged the Islamic world, the Arab world, and countries of the Global South to form a “united diplomatic front,” calling on the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League to move beyond symbolism and toward “practical measures.”
Rewarding Aggression Must End
In conclusion, Araghchi stressed that a region in which one actor operates above the law “will never achieve stability.”
He said: “The path to stability is clear: justice for Palestine, an end to occupation and apartheid, and a regional order based on sovereignty and equality.”
Describing Palestine as the “indispensable cornerstone of regional security,” he warned that if the world truly seeks peace and stability, it must end its “support for expansionism” and enforce international law “without double standards.”
The 17th Al Jazeera Forum was held today, February 6, in Doha, with the primary objectives of strengthening regional cooperation, reviewing developments in the Middle East, enhancing bilateral relations with Qatar, and discussing sensitive political and security issues at the regional level.
The forum serves as a platform for constructive dialogue among senior officials.
