U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry speaks to the media during a news conference at the United Nations Headquarters in Manhattan, New York, December 18, 2015. REUTERS/EDUARDO MUNOZ
Politico: Kerry reaches out to Middle East leaders to calm tensions
Secretary of State John Kerry, determined to stop a Saudi-Iran break in diplomatic ties from scuttling the Syrian peace process, is reaching out to leaders across the Middle East to press for calm.
The State Department said that Kerry had, since Sunday, talked at least twice to Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, as well as Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir and Saudi Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
"He will continue to stay in close communication today on this issue," State Department spokesman John Kirby said on Tuesday, adding that Kerry will be "talking to other leaders in the region as well."
The U.S. efforts — as well as appeals by U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and other international leaders — appear to be yielding some positive results.
WNU Editor: What John Kerry is doing right now is opposite from what the White House was doing on Monday.... Obama administration keeps its distance from Saudi Arabia-Iran fight (Washington Post). Why the shift in policy .... my guess is that someone in White House made the decision that the U.S. should at least be seen trying to do something .... doubly so when it became known on Tuesday that this country now wants to get involved .... Russia Offers To Be A Mediator Between Saudi Arabia And Iran.
More News On U.S. Secretary Of State John Kerry's efforts To Calm The War Of Words Between Iran And Saudi Arabia
Kerry encourages dialogue between Saudis, Iran amid Syria concerns -- Reuters
U.S. fears of Iran-Saudi Arabia tensions prompt outreach by John Kerry -- CNN
John Kerry calls Iranian, Saudi FM to urge calm -- Zeenews
Kerry to Speak With Regional Leaders on Saudi-Iran Tensions -- Sputnik
US: Saudis Were Warned of Consequences of Cleric's Death -- VOA
'Provoke at your peril': The Obama administration is sending a 'message' to Saudi Arabia -- Business Insider
