Rania Abushamala
22 August 2026•Update: 22 August 2026
The top diplomats of Egypt and Iran on Saturday discussed efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and implement a memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington.
A statement by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi reviewed over the phone the overall situation in the region and ongoing efforts “to create an environment conducive to de-escalation and a return to the diplomatic path – whether regarding the negotiation track between Oman and Iran or the resumption of the implementation of the US-Iran memorandum with the ultimate goal of reaching a comprehensive and sustainable agreement that addresses various concerns and enhances regional security and stability.”
Abdelatty emphasized the importance of intensifying ongoing diplomatic efforts and initiatives to reduce current tensions and reach peaceful understandings that contribute to restoring security and stability in the region, the statement said.
He also underscored the critical importance of ensuring the freedom of international navigation and respecting the security and stability of Gulf states, “in a manner that serves the interests of all the region's peoples.”
The Egyptian minister listened to his Iranian counterpart on Iran's view on current developments, the negotiation process, and the associated challenges, the statement said.
Iran and the US signed the memorandum of understanding in June through Pakistani and Qatari mediation, ending hostilities and opening a 60-day window for negotiations toward a final agreement.
Talks have since stalled amid disputes over implementation of the memorandum and arrangements for navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and gas exports.
