Russia Says Israel Rejects Mediation as Iran Conflict Escalates

The Kremlin has expressed concern over the rapid escalation between Israel and Iran, describing the situation as highly unpredictable and urging both sides to exercise maximum restraint. Russia has offered to mediate the conflict, but Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Israel has shown reluctance to engage in any peace talks or mediation efforts. The conflict intensified after Israel launched airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear sites following stalled Iran-US nuclear deal negotiations, prompting retaliatory missile attacks from Iran. Russian President Vladimir Putin has held separate calls with Iranian and Israeli leaders to discuss de-escalation, and Russian authorities are assisting their citizens in Iran with evacuation options. Despite Russia's strategic partnership with Iran, it maintains ties with Israel, though relations have been strained recently due to the Ukraine war and Israel's actions in Gaza. US President Donald Trump, a strong ally of Israel, has urged Tehran residents to evacuate, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted at potentially targeting Iran's Supreme Leader to end hostilities.