Russia ‘strongly condemns’ Israel’s assault on Iran

(MENAFN) Russia has vehemently condemned Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran, cautioning that the attacks risk sparking a dangerous escalation in the Middle East. The Russian Foreign Ministry released a statement on Friday denouncing the strikes as violations of the UN Charter and international law.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched the strikes early Friday, reportedly targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities. Iranian media claimed several high-ranking officials were killed, including IRGC commander Hossein Salami and Deputy Chief of the Army General Staff Gholam Ali Rashid, along with at least six nuclear scientists. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation aimed to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The attack occurred just two days before the sixth round of US-Iran nuclear negotiations scheduled in Oman. Russia called the strikes “unprovoked” and unacceptable, criticizing Israel for targeting a sovereign nation, its citizens, and peaceful nuclear infrastructure.

The Foreign Ministry highlighted the cynical timing of the attack, coinciding with an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board session and upcoming nuclear talks. Russia accused Israel of deliberately escalating tensions, undermining international efforts to reduce conflict and resolve concerns over Iran’s nuclear program peacefully.

Russia warned that the Israeli leadership bears responsibility for the consequences of this provocation and noted that IAEA personnel have also come under fire. Moscow urged the agency to assess the situation and the possible radiological impact of the strikes.

Reaffirming its stance, Russia stressed that the Iranian nuclear issue cannot be solved militarily but must be addressed through diplomatic means. It called on all parties to exercise restraint to avoid further escalation or full-scale war.

Following the attack, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization accused the IAEA of bias towards Israel and losing credibility for not condemning the strikes. Tehran has requested an emergency UN Security Council meeting, with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei warning Israel of severe retaliation.

MENAFN19062025000045015687ID1109695890