Putin Condemns Israeli Strikes on Iran, Offers Mediation to Prevent Escalation

Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has strongly condemned Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran, calling them a violation of international law and the UN Charter. The Kremlin issued a statement on Friday following separate phone calls between Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as well as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

“President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia condemns Israel’s actions, which violate the principles of the UN Charter and international law,” the Kremlin stated.

Putin also conveyed to Netanyahu Russia’s readiness to mediate in order to help de-escalate tensions and avoid further deterioration of regional stability.

The Kremlin expressed deep concern over the implications of the attacks, warning that the current situation poses grave risks for the entire Middle East region.

Russia Decries ‘Unprovoked Military Strikes’

Earlier in the day, Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a separate statement condemning the Israeli airstrikes, which targeted multiple sites in Iran.

“Unprovoked military strikes against a sovereign UN member state, its citizens, peaceful cities, and nuclear energy infrastructure are categorically unacceptable,” the ministry said, describing the attacks as “atrocities.”

The statement underlined that Moscow considers these actions particularly dangerous, especially given the ongoing nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

Support for Iran’s Nuclear Rights

Russia reaffirmed its support for Iran’s right to pursue a peaceful nuclear energy programme, criticizing the timing of the Israeli strikes as “especially cynical” in the context of current diplomatic discussions.

Moscow reiterated its long-standing position that the Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved through diplomacy, urging all parties involved to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could lead to wider conflict.

Delicate Balancing Act

While Russia has maintained a close strategic alliance with Iran, it has also preserved working relations with Israel, particularly in the context of military coordination in Syria. However, recent developments—including Russia’s criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza—signal increasing tensions between Moscow and Tel Aviv.

As the regional crisis unfolds, Russia is positioning itself as a potential diplomatic broker, calling for dialogue and a peaceful resolution to avoid a broader confrontation.