Iran Says Tehran Talks Could Launch a Regional Security Framework

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Monday that planned talks in Tehran with senior Saudi, Pakistani and Turkish officials could begin a regional security framework. He said Iran would host Saudi Arabia’s defense minister, Pakistan’s army chief and Turkey’s intelligence chief. Baghaei said the initiative followed Asim Munir’s earlier Tehran visit and should address regional consequences of U.S. military action against Iran. Saudi official Rayed Krimly said the talks sought de-escalation and supported Qatari and Pakistani mediation. Baghaei also said disagreements among Israeli leaders would not alter Iran’s defensive preparations.