Iran’s foreign minister attributed the ongoing regional instability to what he described as Israel’s war crimes and genocide in the Gaza Strip during a phone call with Austria’s Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg on Monday. Hossein Amir Abdollahian characterized Israel’s actions as a hybrid war, asserting that these are the primary causes of the problems confronting the broader region.

Abdollahian emphasized that Iran has not sought to escalate tensions and suggested that Tehran’s efforts at moderation have been misunderstood by Israel. He implied that misinterpretations of Iran’s intentions have contributed to the current volatile situation.

In response, Schallenberg highlighted the potential negative consequences of the conflict, warning that the hostilities could adversely affect all neighboring countries. The Austrian official underscored the importance of preventing further escalation to maintain regional stability.

The exchange took place amid heightened violence in Gaza, reflecting deepening divisions in the Middle East and increasing international concern over the humanitarian and security implications of the conflict.