Putin says Russia ready to mediate dialogue between Iran and Israel

St Petersburg [Russia]: Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that he is in contact with US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the ongoing Israel-Iran tensions. He emphasized Russia’s readiness to support Tehran’s peaceful nuclear development while also addressing Israel’s security concerns, suggesting that a resolution to end hostilities between Israel.

St Petersburg [Russia]: Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that he is in contact with US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the ongoing Israel-Iran tensions. He emphasized Russia’s readiness to support Tehran’s peaceful nuclear development while also addressing Israel’s security concerns, suggesting that a resolution to end hostilities between Israel and Iran may be achievable.

Additionally, Putin confirmed during a phone call with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan that Russia is prepared to mediate dialogue between Iran and Israel. The Kremlin released a statement saying Putin expressed Russia’s willingness to facilitate discussions and mentioned ongoing contacts with various foreign leaders in this regard.

During a meeting in St. Petersburg with leaders of major global news agencies, Putin revealed that Russia has engaged in detailed talks with officials from Israel and the US and has shared proposals with Iranian representatives. He highlighted the possibility of satisfying Iran’s needs for peaceful nuclear energy while also allaying Israel’s concerns over its national security.

Putin also recalled Russia’s involvement in Iran’s civilian nuclear program, including the completion of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which was initially designed by German firms but built by Russia’s Rosatom. He assured that Russia continues to work closely with Iranian specialists, with the number working in Bushehr estimated at around 600, emphasizing Russia’s ongoing support.

The Russian leader called for efforts to halt hostilities and reach mutual agreements that protect Iran’s peaceful nuclear activities and Israel’s security interests. He observed that Israel’s military strikes against Iran have led to increased national unity within Iran, where society is rallying around its leadership despite internal political complexities.

When questioned about the possibility of targeted actions against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, Putin refused to entertain such scenarios, deeming it an unworthy speculation.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei rejected US President Trump’s calls for Iran to surrender, warning that US strikes would cause irreversible damage. He emphasized that the Iranian nation would never capitulate to threats, warning American military intervention would have severe consequences.

Meanwhile, Trump stated that he had a phone conversation with Putin on June 17, during which they discussed Ukraine and Iran, including Russia’s offer to mediate with Tehran. Trump humorously remarked that he told Putin to “mediate your own,” implying skepticism about Russia’s role.

Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated on June 13 when Israel launched Operation “Rising Lion,” targeting Iran’s nuclear sites, prompting retaliatory strikes from Iran.