Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described the Israeli strikes on Iran as a complex situation and expressed hope that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) could help de-escalate the tensions.
“Israel’s strikes on Iran, which have been presented as a response to ongoing hostilities, have not simplified the situation. However, we are hopeful that the Security Council will play a role in easing the tensions,” Lavrov remarked at a press conference after discussions with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya. He added that the UNSC, at the request of Algeria, China, and Russia, would convene in New York to discuss Iran’s appeal regarding the incident. Lavrov suggested that the discussions could shed more light on the situation but emphasized that further diplomatic efforts are essential.
Lavrov noted that, for now, a worst-case scenario has been avoided, though the risks remain. “There are those, as with the Ukrainian situation, who would like to escalate matters to the point of drawing in external players, particularly the United States. I hope recent diplomatic engagements will prevent such an outcome. We are doing everything possible to curb the escalation and defuse the situation,” Lavrov continued.
He underscored the need for a ceasefire on Palestinian territories and in Lebanon and emphasized long-term stabilization efforts, especially concerning humanitarian issues, including waves of refugees who need to return to their homes. “And, as I noted earlier, the establishment of a Palestinian state, in full alignment with UN resolutions, is increasingly crucial,” Lavrov concluded.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Russian Foreign Ministry
Based on TASS materials