Moscow: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov engaged in discussions regarding the situation around the Strait of Hormuz with his Saudi and Emirati counterparts through separate phone calls. These conversations aimed to address the ongoing tensions in the region and explore avenues for lasting peace and stability.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement after Lavrov's conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. The discussion emphasized the importance of avoiding further escalation and highlighted the need for continuous diplomatic efforts to reach a sustainable and long-term resolution to the crisis. Both parties stressed the necessity of restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait, a situation affected by US and Israeli attacks on Iran in late February. Additionally, the dialogue underscored the importance of normalizing relations between Iran and the Arab monarchies.
The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed its willingness to support progress in these areas, considering the interests of all involved parties. A separate statement detailing Lavrov's conversation with UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan revealed that their discussion also touched on UN-related matters concerning the Strait of Hormuz. The Russian side highlighted the importance of supporting ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US, cautioning against actions that could destabilize the region.
Both foreign ministers agreed to maintain communication and work towards harmonizing approaches to achieve a long-term solution. The UAE foreign minister also extended congratulations to Lavrov on Russia's Victory Day celebrations, and they discussed several bilateral issues, including the scheduling of future contacts.
The tension in the region has intensified since the US and Israel conducted strikes against Iran on February 28, leading to Iranian retaliation and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire was brokered on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but negotiations in Islamabad did not result in a permanent agreement. US President Donald Trump later announced an extension of the ceasefire without specifying a deadline, while the US continued a naval blockade targeting Iranian maritime traffic in the strait starting April 13.