Repairing Tehran–Cairo diplomacy after a decade of silence
Araghchi’s third visit to Cairo in less than a year clearly reflects the two countries' mutual determination to revive ties that have long been shaped by caution and occasional confrontation. His official meetings with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and the newly appointed Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aaty highlighted the high level of these discussions. Araghchi emphasized the need for regular consultations and constructive dialogue between the two countries as essential to resolving complex regional crises. In a clear message, he spoke of moving beyond the cold phase of relations toward an unprecedented level of trust.
Tehran and Cairo's unity in defending Palestine
A major focus of the talks was the catastrophic situation in Gaza. Araghchi described the plight of the oppressed Palestinian people as a clear case of genocide and called for joint action by Islamic countries to rein in the Zionist regime. Meanwhile, President el-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s principled stance against ongoing killings and stressed Cairo’s efforts to contain tensions. This unprecedented alignment in positions could serve as the foundation for a new front in defense of the Palestinian cause and in establishing deterrence against the Zionist regime's occupation.
Untapped economic potential: An opportunity for Iran’s private sector
One of the major weaknesses in Iran–Egypt relations is Tehran’s minimal trade share in Egypt’s 105-million-strong market — a market with considerable demand for imports such as textiles, construction materials, agricultural goods, and technical and engineering services. During the visit, Araghchi and his delegation underscored the importance of expanding economic ties, removing trade barriers, and activating joint chambers of commerce. Given Egypt’s strategic position by the Red Sea, the Mediterranean, and the Suez Canal, it can also become Iran’s gateway to African markets — a significant opportunity for Iranian economic actors, if pursued effectively.
A new regional diplomacy: From Cairo to Iran–U.S. dynamics
Recent developments indicate that Egypt is ready to play a more active role in West Asia’s political landscape, while Iran, maintaining its strategic independence, is open to realistic regional dialogue. The visit even included brief discussions on indirect Iran–U.S. talks — a sign that Egypt seeks to become a facilitating player in regional crises. With deep civilizational, religious, and historical ties, Tehran–Cairo relations could also serve as a model for bridging other divides within the Islamic world.
NOURNEWS