Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called on Israel to search for non-violent solutions in Gaza, amidst escalating tensions. In an interview with "Russia Today" news channel, Lavrov emphasized the need for Israel to explore peaceful options instead of using force in the region.
According to Lavrov, Israel has intensified its use of force against those it deems supporters of Palestine, such as Lebanese Hezbollah and Hamas, with a vow to eliminate Hamas.
The Russian diplomat also touched on the assassination of Hamas' political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, describing it as a provocation aimed at dragging Iran into wider military actions. He praised Iran's refusal to succumb to provocations and its calls to prevent the conflict from spreading further in the region.
Turning to the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, Lavrov critiqued Kyiv's negotiation capabilities and the West's intentions. He remarked that if Kyiv had adhered to agreements made in Istanbul two years ago, it would have retained its 1991 borders, excluding some regions. However, Lavrov accused Kyiv of proving its ineptitude in negotiations, with Western support aimed at destabilizing Russia and continuing the conflict.
"We have repeatedly demonstrated our readiness for dialogue," Lavrov stated, referring to the Istanbul agreements signed in April 2022. He lamented the West's lack of interest in a peaceful resolution, attributing it to a strategy designed to obstruct any potential agreements.