Iraqi FM, Arab League chief discuss Hormuz Strait, regional tensions

BAGHDAD, Sept. 7 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein met Monday in Cairo with Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Fahmy to discuss regional security tensions and navigation disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, according to a statement by the Iraqi Foreign Ministry. The two sides reviewed potential economic impacts on Arab nations, particularly Iraq, caused by disruptions to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing its importance to global trade and energy supplies, the statement said. Hussein stressed the importance of opening communication channels to de-escalate tensions between Tehran and Washington, adding that the Arab League could play a positive role. Fahmy highlighted quiet diplomacy and dialogue to address crises, expressing readiness to support efforts to reduce regional tensions, the statement said. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the regular session of the Arab League Council at the ministerial level. After the United States and Israel launched war on Iran in late February, Tehran restricted shipping passage through the Hormuz Strait, while U.S. forces imposed a naval blockade targeting vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports. Enditem