Iran's Khatibzadeh: Middle East Must Chart Its Own Future

The Middle East's Future: Khatibzadeh's Perspective on Regional Self-Determination The United Arab Emirates – Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh recently gave an interview to The National News, offering insights into Iran's perspective on regional politics. He asserted that the involvement of external powers in the Middle East has not been beneficial. "The region is so capable of architecting the future of itself," he stated, emphasizing the region's capacity for self-governance. Khatibzadeh also downplayed the relevance of past external influence, suggesting that those countries "are so strategically irrelevant on issues in this region." His comments reflect a growing sentiment among some regional actors regarding the need for greater autonomy and self-reliance in shaping the future of the Middle East. The interview underscores a shift in regional dynamics, with a focus on regional solutions and cooperation.