DUBAI, UAE - Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Damascus on Saturday as part of a regional diplomatic effort focused on the Israeli aggressions in Gaza and Lebanon, according to Iranian state media.

Araghchi's visit to Syria follows high-level discussions with Lebanese officials in Beirut, where efforts to address the escalating violence in the region were a key focus. His stop in Damascus is aimed at further consultations with Syrian leaders, with particular emphasis on ceasefire initiatives in Gaza and Lebanon.

“The most pressing issue today is working towards a ceasefire, particularly in Gaza, and we hope these efforts will soon bear fruit,” Araghchi said, expressing Iran's hopes for progress through ongoing talks.

The Iranian foreign minister expressed concern over the ongoing hostilities, condemning Israel’s actions in both Gaza and Lebanon and called for increased international pressure to halt the violence.

During his visit, Araghchi is expected to meet with Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam al-Sabbagh and Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali to discuss both regional security and bilateral ties between Iran and Syria. Economic, political, and cultural cooperation are also on the agenda.

Araghchi’s visit to Lebanon a day earlier included meetings with Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, as part of Tehran’s broader diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with regional allies amid growing tensions.