Exclusive; U.S. Reaction to Iran's Embassy Reopening in Saudi Arabia: We Have Long Been Advocates of Diplomacy

On Monday, the Deputy Spokesperson for the U.S. State Department responded to a question from a Persian section journalist regarding the U.S. reaction to Iran's reopening of its embassy in Saudi Arabia, stating, "We have long encouraged direct dialogue and diplomacy, including between Iran and regional governments." Vedant Patel added that Washington remains hopeful that dialogue will help reduce tensions and increase stability in the region, addressing regional concerns. In response to another question about whether he confirms the Financial Times report regarding several meetings between Robert Malley and Iran's representative at the UN concerning dual-national prisoners, he stated that he has nothing to say on that matter. According to Patel, the U.S. has its tools for communicating with Iran and delivering its messages, and will do so whenever it sees it in line with its national interests. He added that he would not discuss the content or means of delivering messages to the Islamic Republic. Vedant Patel also commented on a protest by a group of Iranians outside the State Department building, saying, "The U.S. always values opportunities to hear the voices of the Iranian community regarding issues in Iran." Nasser Kanani, the spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, announced on Monday that "in completion of the implementation of bilateral agreements between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Saudi Arabia for the resumption of relations between the two countries," Iran's embassy in Saudi Arabia, the consulate in Jeddah, and Iran's permanent representation to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation will officially reopen on Tuesday and Wednesday. Additionally, Robert Malley stated that the sanctions on 'Abar Arvan' are to support Iranians' access to free and uncensored internet, expressing U.S. concerns over the escalation of Iran's nuclear activities. The U.S. special envoy for Iran stated that military options are on the table, but diplomacy is preferred. Dozens of diplomats have urged Biden to end diplomacy with Iran.