Moscow, Russia — March 5, 2026
Russia has said it will take diplomatic steps to prevent any potential military action by the United States and Israel against Iran, as tensions across the Middle East continue to escalate.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Thursday that Moscow will work to create conditions that make such military operations “impossible,” emphasizing the need for international cooperation to prevent further escalation in the region.
Russia Calls for Diplomatic Efforts
Speaking at a roundtable meeting with ambassadors, Lavrov stated that Russia would continue engaging with countries across the region and the broader international community to reduce tensions.
He said Moscow plans to work with member states of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to promote diplomatic solutions and discourage military action.
According to Lavrov, Russia intends to foster an environment where potential military campaigns against Iran by the United States or Israel would become increasingly difficult to carry out.
Concern Over Civilian Casualties
Lavrov also called for a halt to attacks in the Middle East that result in civilian casualties.
He stressed the importance of protecting civilian populations and critical infrastructure, adding that preventing harm to non-combatants should remain a priority for all parties involved in the conflict.
Questions Raised Over Military Objectives
The Russian foreign minister also questioned the stated objectives of the ongoing military operations targeting Iran.
Lavrov argued that even US leaders have not clearly explained the final goals of the campaigns. He referred to operations reportedly named “Lion’s Rover” and “Epic Fury,” saying their ultimate purpose remains unclear.
He suggested that one possible objective behind the strikes could be to create divisions among countries in the Persian Gulf region, potentially widening the gap between Iran and its Arab neighbors.
Escalating Conflict in the Middle East
Lavrov’s comments come as the security situation in the Middle East continues to deteriorate rapidly.
Last Saturday, the United States and Israel reportedly conducted a joint military operation inside Iranian territory, resulting in the deaths of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior officials, according to reports cited in the region.
Following the incident, Iran launched retaliatory attacks, including drone and missile strikes targeting locations in several Arab countries.
The conflict has now entered its sixth day, with Tehran reportedly targeting US military bases and Israeli positions in the region.
Meanwhile, Israel has continued strikes on targets in Tehran and has expanded operations toward Lebanon, reportedly targeting the militant group Hezbollah.
Previous US–Iran Talks
Lavrov also mentioned recent diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran held in Geneva, saying the talks had ended in a “positive atmosphere.”
According to the Russian minister, the two sides had been close to reaching certain understandings. However, he claimed that the United States later stated Iran was unwilling to accept its conditions.
Lavrov described the shift in messaging as part of a broader diplomatic strategy.
As tensions continue to rise, global attention remains focused on whether diplomatic engagement can prevent further escalation in the Middle East.
