Russian President Vladimir Putin strongly condemned Israel’s military strikes on Iran during separate phone calls with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Putin expressed condolences for Iranian casualties and criticized the attacks as violations of the UN Charter, according to the Kremlin.
Tensions escalated sharply after Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles toward Israel in response to what it called the largest Israeli strikes on Iranian territory. Explosions were reported in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, with sirens sounding across Israel. Despite the escalation, Russia confirmed that the Bushehr nuclear power plant, which it built in Iran, remained unharmed.
During his call with Netanyahu, Putin emphasized the need for a return to diplomatic negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, warning that military actions threaten regional and global stability. He reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to mediate talks and assist in removing enriched uranium from Iran to ease U.S.-Iran tensions.
Moscow has grown closer to Tehran in recent years, cementing a 20-year strategic partnership in January. However, the pact does not include a mutual defense clause, reflecting Russia’s intent to avoid direct involvement in Middle East conflicts.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov and the Russian Foreign Ministry also issued statements condemning the Israeli strikes as unprovoked and unlawful, urging both sides to exercise restraint. The ministry accused the West of fueling anti-Iran sentiment and warned that continued aggression could trigger a full-scale regional war.
Russia reiterated its support for renewed diplomatic efforts, noting the U.S. and Iran are scheduled to meet in Oman for nuclear talks. Moscow pledged to maintain close communication with both Tehran and Tel Aviv to prevent further escalation and promote peace.