As violence escalates between Israel and Iran, Russian President Vladimir Putin signals a diplomatic path, proposing Moscow as mediator to prevent further confrontation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday expressed Moscow’s readiness to mediate between Israel and Iran to prevent further escalation following a wave of Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory, the Kremlin announced.

Putin held separate phone calls with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which he condemned Israel’s strikes and proposed Russia’s mediation to ease tensions. He underlined the necessity of resolving disputes through peaceful dialogue and negotiations.

In his conversation with Netanyahu, Putin stressed the importance of a diplomatic approach, particularly in relation to the Iranian nuclear programme. “The importance of resolving all issues related to the Iranian nuclear programme exclusively through political and diplomatic means was emphasized,” the Kremlin noted. It added that Russia is ready to offer its mediation services to prevent any further deterioration of the situation.

The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed Netanyahu intended to brief Putin on the current situation.

Meanwhile, in his call with Pezeshkian, Putin expressed condolences over the casualties from the Israeli attacks and denounced Israel’s actions as a violation of the UN Charter and international law. The Kremlin statement reiterated Moscow’s strong support for a peaceful resolution to issues related to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

The Israeli military operation, which began early Friday, targeted Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure and reportedly resulted in the deaths of senior military officials and scientists. Strikes were reported in Tehran, Natanz, Tabriz, and Isfahan throughout the day and into the night.

In response, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed severe retaliation, with counteractions beginning Friday night.

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