Russia says tensions surrounding Iran should be resolved through diplomatic means, warning that the use of force would only exacerbate existing problems, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Tuesday.
“We are closely following Iran-related developments. We welcome the mediation efforts offered by the Sultanate of Oman.
“And of course, we proceed from the understanding that there should be a peaceful settlement here,” Lavrov said.
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Lavrov spoke at a Middle East conference held on the sidelines of the Valdai International Discussion Club in Moscow.
His remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, as the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and several warships to the region.
Washington has also stepped-up warnings to Tehran in an effort to pressure Iran into agreeing to a nuclear deal.
Lavrov said Moscow was concerned about Iran’s future and interested in the full normalisation of relations between Iran and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf.
He added that the restoration of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia had created the necessary prerequisites for improving regional stability.
Xinhua/NAN
