Russia Demands Immediate End to Persian Gulf Hostilities, Slams US-Israel "Military Venture"
In a strongly worded statement, Russia has called for an "immediate cessation" of hostilities in the Persian Gulf, sharply criticizing what it terms "unprovoked aggression by the US and Israel against Iran." The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed grave concerns over the escalating conflict, highlighting risks to regional stability and extensive damage to critical infrastructure.
Escalating Crisis and Infrastructure Damage
Moscow voiced serious alarm regarding the "ongoing armed confrontation" in the Persian Gulf, emphasizing the growing dangers of further escalation. The Ministry noted that the scale of destruction to energy and other vital infrastructure in Iran and neighboring Arab states continues to expand, exacerbating the humanitarian and economic toll.
"We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities resulting from the unprovoked aggression by the US and Israel against Iran," the statement declared, underscoring that ending military actions by Washington and Tel Aviv is a prerequisite for any progress toward resolution.
Diplomatic Mediation and Regional Security Initiatives
Russia affirmed its readiness to collaborate with regional and global partners to mediate the conflict through diplomatic channels. "Russia, together with China, Turkey, and other like-minded partners, stands ready to facilitate a settlement and help resolve existing differences through political and diplomatic means," the Ministry stated, aiming for long-term, sustainable stabilization that considers all stakeholders' interests.
Connecting these efforts to its broader regional policy, Moscow advocates for peaceful coexistence, security, and good-neighborly relations between Arab nations and Iran. The Ministry also highlighted a recent proposal by Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, published in The Economist on March 18, 2026, which aligns with Russia's vision for a balanced security architecture in the Middle East.
Collective Security Framework and Ongoing Initiatives
Reiterating its commitment to multilateral solutions, Russia referenced its long-standing initiative to develop a concept of collective security in the Gulf. "Russia has for several years been promoting an initiative to develop a concept of collective security in the Gulf, aimed at establishing lasting peace and cooperation among all littoral states," the statement explained, emphasizing readiness to provide constructive assistance in resolving conflicts through political and diplomatic means.
The conflict, which erupted on February 28 with a massive joint US-Israeli air campaign dubbed "Operation Epic Fury," has significantly altered Middle Eastern geopolitics. Over the past three weeks, hostilities have expanded across multiple fronts, involving retaliatory strikes on regional energy hubs and a substantial naval presence in the Indian Ocean, drawing intense international focus on preventing broader global escalation.
