Russia condemns US strikes on Iran, warns of regional escalation

Russia has expressed deep regret over the growing number of parties becoming involved in the Middle East conflict and has condemned the US strikes on Iran.

 “There has been an expansion in the number of participants in this conflict, marking a new wave of escalation in the region. Naturally, we condemn this and express deep regret in this regard,” Caliber.Az quotes Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as saying, per Russian media.

Speaking at a briefing in response to a question from Russian media, Peskov added that the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities would not impact bilateral dialogue between Moscow and Washington.

“These are separate processes,” he said when asked about possible repercussions.

He went on to note that it remained important to determine the current status of the targeted nuclear sites and whether there was any radiation risk.

“Although we have heard from the IAEA that, at present, there are no signs of radioactive contamination,” Peskov stated.

“These are all matters that understandably cause legitimate concern,” he concluded.

Russia, he added, stands ready to assist Iran through various means, depending largely on Tehran’s specific requests.

“It all depends on what Iran requires,” Peskov said. “We have offered our mediation — that is a tangible step. We have made our position clear, which is also an important sign of support for the Iranian side. What happens next will depend on what Iran needs now.”

Furthermore, the spokesperson added that all countries are entitled to develop peaceful nuclear energy, including the construction and operation of nuclear power plants.

“We believe that all countries have the right to peaceful nuclear energy — the right to operate nuclear power stations and to develop a civilian nuclear industry — and we stand firmly by this position,” Peskov said.

By Aghakazim Guliyev