Iraq’s foreign minister, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, held talks with the foreign minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran about reducing tensions in the region.

In a post on X, Fuad Hussein wrote that after meeting Abbas Araqchi, indirect contacts between the Islamic Republic and Washington are underway, as well as efforts to “reduce tensions and reopen the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic.”

He added: “Dialogue and diplomacy continue to be the most effective way to contain tensions and prevent their escalation. Regional security and freedom of navigation require regional cooperation and responsible dialogue among the relevant parties.”