Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and his Saudi counterpart Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on Thursday exchanged views on the recent unrest in Iran, reported Xinhua. During a phone call, the two sides expressed their determination to promote bilateral relations across all fields, discussed the latest regional and international developments, and called for continued consultations and joint efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region, according to a statement from Iran's Foreign Ministry. Araghchi briefed his Saudi counterpart on recent developments in Iran, saying that peaceful protests over economic grievances turned violent on Jan. 8 and 9 following what he described as the "organized entry of Israeli-affiliated terrorists." He stressed the need for global condemnation of foreign interference in countries' internal affairs, adding that Iran would defend itself against any external threat. Araghchi also condemned what he termed "provocative and meddlesome" remarks by U.S. officials, reminding regional countries of their responsibility to safeguard West Asia's stability and security against actions that could undermine it, including Israel's "expansionist" moves. For his part, the Saudi foreign minister expressed concern over the ongoing situation in the region and the potential consequences of further escalation, underscoring the importance of diplomacy and regional cooperation to ensure stability and security. Protests have erupted since late last month in several Iranian cities over the sharp depreciation of the national currency. What began as demonstrations over economic conditions quickly escalated into nationwide unrest, leading to violent clashes between police and protesters. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and U.S. sanctions.