Russia’s Sergei Lavrov Warns Against New US Strike on Iran, Calls for Restraint Amid Rising Tensions
Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, has issued a strong warning against any new military strike by the United States on Iran, cautioning that such action could trigger serious consequences and further destabilise the Middle East.
Speaking in an interview with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Arabiya television, Lavrov urged restraint and emphasised the need for diplomatic engagement to ensure Iran’s nuclear programme remains strictly peaceful while avoiding a broader regional crisis.
His comments come amid heightened geopolitical tensions following indirect talks between U.S. and Iranian negotiators in Geneva aimed at preventing a worsening confrontation between Washington and Tehran.
Warning of Nuclear Risks
Lavrov stressed that previous attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, including sites monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency had already created significant risks.
According to him, such strikes raised the possibility of a nuclear incident, warning that further escalation could have dangerous global consequences.
He noted that reactions across the Middle East, particularly from Arab nations and Gulf states, indicate strong opposition to increased tensions.
“No one wants an increase in tension,” Lavrov said, adding that further escalation would amount to “playing with fire.”
Threat to Regional Stability
The Russian diplomat also warned that renewed military action could reverse recent diplomatic progress in the region, including improving relations between Iran and neighbouring countries such as Saudi Arabia.
He stressed that preserving regional stability should remain a priority and called for negotiations that would protect Iran’s lawful rights while guaranteeing that its nuclear activities remain peaceful.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
The interview followed recent diplomatic engagements between U.S. and Iranian officials aimed at easing tensions. According to a senior U.S. official, Iran is expected to submit a written proposal outlining possible solutions to its ongoing dispute with Washington.
Meanwhile, U.S. national security advisers have reportedly discussed military preparedness in the region, with American forces expected to be fully positioned by mid-March.
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The United States continues to demand that Iran abandon its nuclear programme, a demand Tehran has firmly rejected while maintaining that its nuclear activities are intended solely for peaceful purposes.
Russia Backs Negotiated Resolution
Lavrov reaffirmed that Russia remains in close contact with Iran’s leadership and expressed confidence that Tehran is committed to resolving the dispute in line with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
He added that several Arab nations have signalled to Washington the importance of restraint and the need for an agreement that would avoid undermining Iran’s legitimate rights while ensuring transparency in its nuclear activities.
The warning highlights growing global concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East and underscores renewed calls for diplomacy as the preferred path toward long-term regional stability.
