A delicate balancing act awaits Russia, one of Iran’s key allies that also maintains ties with Israel.
After Israel launched what it described as “preventive” attacks on Iranian military and nuclear targets last week, Russia’s position appeared clear.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Moscow condemned what it called “unprovoked military strikes against a sovereign UN member state”, referring to Iran.
The Kremlin, whose partnership with Iran dates back many years, has urged a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
Since the hostilities began on Friday, more than 220 people have been killed in Israeli attacks on Iran while 24 people have been killed in Iranian counterstrikes.
