Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry reiterated on Sunday Egypt's rejection of remarks made by Iranian officials against Saudi Arabia following the execution of a Shiite cleric in the kingdom earlier.

Addressing Arab foreign ministers during an Arab League urgent meeting, Shoukry expressed Egypt's condemnation of the attacks that targeted the Saudi embassy and consulate in Iran earlier.

Relations between Iran and Arab countries have been unstable since 1979 due to Tehran's interference in domestic affairs of Arab countries, he said.

Shoukry added that the current wave of turmoil will affect the whole region, including Iran which sees itself as the main defender of the Shiite community.

Egypt respects all groups whatever their races or beliefs are, he stressed.

Arab countries are capable of taking a firm stance to protect their territories and security, Shoukry noted.

Source: MENA