Russia Urges Restraint, Backs Diplomatic Solution In Iran Talks Amid Persian Gulf Tensions

Sergei Lavrov held talks with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, urging restraint and emphasising the need for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing tensions in the Persian Gulf, as both sides warned against further escalation.

According to Russia’s Foreign Ministry, Lavrov stressed the importance of preventing a return to armed confrontation, stating that the crisis cannot be resolved through military means. He reiterated Moscow’s willingness to support efforts aimed at stabilising the region, including reviving its proposal for a collective security framework in the Persian Gulf involving regional and international stakeholders.

During the conversation, Araghchi briefed the Russian side on recent Iran-US discussions held in Islamabad on April 11. He raised concerns over US actions in key maritime zones, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such developments could have far-reaching consequences for both regional and global stability. Iranian media reports indicated that Tehran views increased US activity in the area as a significant source of tension.

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Moscow, in its official response, welcomed the continuation of diplomatic engagement and called for solutions that address the root causes of the conflict while safeguarding the interests of Iran and neighbouring countries. Lavrov also conveyed condolences over the reported death of Iranian diplomat Kamal Kharrazi, said to have been killed in an airstrike, highlighting the broader volatility in the region.

The developments come amid heightened geopolitical activity, with Lavrov arriving in China for a two-day official visit. He is scheduled to meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to discuss bilateral cooperation as well as key global issues, including the conflict in Ukraine and tensions in West Asia, across platforms such as BRICS, the G20, and the United Nations.

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov cautioned that any disruption to shipping routes, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, could negatively impact global markets. His remarks followed reports that the United States may enforce a maritime blockade targeting vessels linked to Iran, a move that risks further escalating an already fragile situation in one of the world’s most strategically vital energy corridors.

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