Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned of the danger of escalation against Iran, considering that any move in this direction would be considered “playing with fire,” in light of escalating regional tensions.
Lavrov explained during media statements that he is closely following the positions of the Arab countries and Gulf monarchies, stressing that none of them wants a new confrontation to break out, and that everyone is aware of the repercussions of the escalation on the security and stability of the region.
He pointed out that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is strongly pushing for strict measures against Iran, considering that this may affect its rights guaranteed by international treaties, most notably the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
Lavrov also warned that any new provocations may undermine the positive path that the region has witnessed in recent years, especially with regard to improving relations between the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Tehran, stressing that the normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran constituted a pivotal step in this path.
The Russian Foreign Minister stressed that the Arab messages addressed to Washington clearly call for restraint and work to reach understandings that guarantee Iran’s legitimate rights, while at the same time providing verification mechanisms that confirm the peacefulness of its nuclear program.
Lavrov concluded by noting that there is continuous communication between Moscow and Tehran, expressing his country’s confidence in Iran’s sincere desire to settle its nuclear file by adhering to the provisions of the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
