Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Tuesday that “everything possible must be done to stop any action that causes civilian casualties,” as conflict escalates in the Middle East following U.S. And Israeli strikes against Iranian targets. The statement came as reports emerged of 150 deaths resulting from an attack on a school in Iran, according to Lavrov.
Lavrov reiterated Russia’s long-held position that Iran has not produced or attempted to develop nuclear weapons, a claim he attributed to verified findings from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and U.S. Intelligence. He characterized this as the sole “justification for the war.”
China echoed calls for de-escalation, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning asserting that the recent U.S. Attack on Iran during ongoing negotiations violates international law and basic norms of international relations, contributing to a “sudden escalation” of the situation. Mao called for an immediate cessation of military actions, a swift resumption of negotiations and the preservation of the international non-proliferation system, as well as peace and stability in the Middle East and globally.
The Kremlin has maintained that its 20-year treaty with Iran, signed in January 2025 to strengthen economic, military, and political ties, does not constitute a mutual defense pact obligating Moscow to assist Tehran in the event of military aggression. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov affirmed that Russia is in “constant contact” with Iranian leaders, but did not specify with whom following the death of the supreme leader in recent airstrikes. Peskov also noted that Moscow is maintaining contact with leaders of countries affected by the conflict, including Gulf states.
Peskov further clarified that membership in the BRICS economic group does not necessitate mutual assistance during armed aggression, underscoring the limits of the alliance. This position comes despite Russia’s expressed concern and condemnation of the conflict involving Iran, a key ally.
President Vladimir Putin reportedly discussed the situation with the King of Bahrain, expressing Russia’s willingness to contribute to regional stability amid the escalating military actions, according to teleSUR.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres warned in June 2025 that the conflict could have “catastrophic” consequences for humanity, condemning the U.S. Decision to attack Iranian nuclear facilities. The U.S. Action followed Israeli strikes against Iranian nuclear sites, with Israel alleging that Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons threatens its existence. Iran responded with missile attacks on Israel, targeting both military and civilian areas.
