Moscow: The Kremlin announced on Thursday that Russia has not received any requests for assistance from Iran, including military support, amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified during a press briefing that there had been no appeals from the Iranian side for aid, even as Israel and the US continue a large-scale offensive against Iran.
According to Anadolu Agency, the ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 926 individuals, including Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and senior military officials. In response, Iran has launched drone and missile attacks targeting Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military assets. When questioned about Russia's efforts to end the conflict, Peskov stated that only those who initiated it could bring it to a conclusion.
Russia's focus is on minimizing the crisis's impact on its economy, Peskov added. The Russian Foreign Ministry has denounced the strikes on Iran as an 'act of armed aggression' and a maneuver to 'overthrow the legitimate government in Iran.' The ministry described Iran as having been 'deliberately provoked' into retaliatory attacks on targets in several Arab countries, expressing deep regret over the situation.
Moscow has reiterated its call for all parties to cease hostilities immediately, condemning attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructures in both Iran and Gulf countries as 'completely unacceptable.' The Foreign Ministry emphasized that ending the US and Israeli aggression is crucial to preventing further destabilization in the region, which has caused significant suffering for Arabs.
In another development, Peskov confirmed that Russia remains open to continuing peace talks with Ukraine and is anticipating the next round of discussions. He expressed appreciation for the US's role in facilitating a settlement in Ukraine, acknowledging that the pause in talks was due to 'obvious reasons.' Despite the circumstances, Peskov noted that Russia remains patient and is observing how the situation unfolds.