Daijiworld Media Network - Moscow

Moscow, Mar 7: Vladimir Putin has called for an immediate halt to hostilities following the recent escalation in Iran, expressing condolences over the large number of civilian casualties and senior leaders killed in what he described as “armed Israeli-American aggression”.

According to the Kremlin, Mr Putin conveyed his condolences during a phone conversation late Friday with Masoud Pezeshkian. He expressed deep sympathy over the deaths of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, members of Khamenei’s family, several Iranian political and military leaders, and numerous civilians.

During the call, Mr Putin reaffirmed Russia’s stance in favour of an immediate cessation of hostilities and stressed the need to reject the use of force to resolve issues involving Iran or the wider Middle East. He urged a swift return to diplomatic efforts to address the conflict.

The Kremlin said the Russian president remains in regular contact with leaders of member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council as tensions in the region continue to rise.

President Pezeshkian thanked Russia for its support and solidarity with the Iranian people during the crisis. He also briefed Mr Putin on the latest developments in the conflict and the situation inside the country.