UAE's Gargash calls for new mindset and Arab dialogue with Iran

UAE diplomatic adviser Dr. Anwar Gargash said Arab states must hold dialogue with Iran, The National reported.

Speaking at an Al-Monitor panel in New York on Sunday, he called for a "new mindset" toward Tehran. He said talks on regional stability and development should include Arab states, not only the United States.

What did Gargash say about Arab states and Iran?

Gargash said Arab states should talk with Iran about the region's future, in addition to any US-Iran talks. He said the discussions should cover the kind of region all sides want, its stability and its development. He said this requires a new mindset.

Gargash is diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed. He said such discussions can happen between Iran and the United States. But they should also take place between Iran and Arab states.

Why does Iran prefer talks with the United States?

Gargash said Iran sees itself as a regional hegemon. He added that Tehran would rather discuss strategic issues more with the United States.

What is expected at the UN General Assembly high-level week?

Gargash's comments come ahead of the UN General Assembly high-level week in New York. Regional security and the conflict involving Iran are expected to feature prominently in diplomatic discussions.

What did Gargash say about instability in Iran?

Gargash said the UAE and other countries will have to get used to dealing with an unstable Iran for some time. That does not necessarily mean a change of regime, he said. But the country will be unstable for a period, and that matters for how others deal with it.

He also warned of the prospect of a prolonged conflict. He insisted diplomacy was the way forward.