Moscow: The US-Israel "aggression" against Iran could spur a movement in the country and its neighbors in favor of developing nuclear weapons, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday. Addressing a press conference after talks with Brunei's Second Minister of Foreign Affairs Erywan Yusof, Lavrov highlighted that the conflict could paradoxically incite the nuclear weapon proliferation it aims to prevent.
According to Anadolu Agency, Lavrov emphasized that the ongoing conflict could encourage Iran and neighboring Arab countries to pursue nuclear capabilities. He noted that despite International Atomic Energy Agency and US intelligence reports confirming Iran's non-pursuit of nuclear arms, the current aggression poses a growing threat to global nuclear security.
Lavrov also addressed the potential for sanctions against the US and Israel, suggesting that such measures are unlikely to be taken. He mentioned that Russia, in collaboration with China, convened a UN Security Council meeting to voice principled assessments, acknowledging the limitations imposed by the US's permanent member status.
The Russian Foreign Minister expressed concerns over the clash between international law and its absence, reiterating Russia's readiness to mediate if a clear direction emerges from involved parties. Lavrov affirmed Iran's rights under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons to enrich uranium, underscoring the escalating threat to global nuclear security due to the Middle East conflict.
Brunei's foreign minister condemned the US-Israeli attack on Iran, emphasizing the importance of international law and diplomacy for regional peace. Lavrov also discussed the situation with Oman's foreign minister, advocating for a diplomatic resolution.
The US and Israel's recent attack on Iran resulted in the deaths of several top Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with drone and missile strikes against Israel and US-affiliated sites in the Gulf. US President Donald Trump has vowed to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities, warning against its nuclear ambitions amidst ongoing negotiations mediated by Oman.