Russia condemns Israeli strikes on Iran, citing violation of international law

Russia has issued a strong condemnation of Israel's overnight airstrikes on Iranian targets, describing the attacks as a breach of the United Nations Charter and fundamental principles of international law.

The statement was released by the country’s Foreign Ministry, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“We express our extreme concern over the dangerous escalation of tension in the Middle East. We strongly condemn the forceful action of the State of Israel,” the ministry declared, warning that such actions risk further destabilizing an already volatile region.

Moscow called on both Israel and Iran to exercise maximum restraint and avoid any further escalation that could endanger regional and global security. The Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts to defuse the situation and reiterated its longstanding position against the use of force in resolving international disputes.

In addition, the ministry urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to provide an objective and thorough assessment of the unfolding events, specifically noting the potential risks associated with attacks near or on nuclear infrastructure in Iran. It called for an analysis of the “probable radiological consequences of attacks on nuclear facilities in Iran,” reflecting concerns over the possible environmental and humanitarian implications.

On June 13, Israel conducted a series of strikes across Iran, declaring that the attacks targeted the very "heart" of Iran’s nuclear program. According to Iranian state media, the assaults resulted in the deaths of Hossein Salami, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps—one of the most powerful branches of Iran’s military—as well as several other high-ranking military officials and nuclear scientists. Tragically, civilians, including children, were also reported among the casualties.

In response, the Israeli military stated that Iran launched approximately 100 drones toward Israeli territory on June 13 morning, with Israeli defence systems reportedly intercepting all incoming threats. Amid the heightened hostilities, Israel declared a state of emergency, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the escalating conflict between the two nations.

By Vafa Guliyeva