Moscow has voiced its readiness to act as a mediator in the protracted conflict between Washington and Tehran. Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Alexander Alimov stated that Russia is ready to provide a platform for peaceful dialogue, but emphasized that it does not intend to impose its services on the parties to the conflict.
Moscow's Proposal
The diplomatic initiative was aimed not only at resolving bilateral disagreements between the US and Iran but also at smoothing out contradictions between Tehran and the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf. Alimov noted that the Russian side maintains close contacts with all interested players in the region, including Islamabad, Riyadh, and Ankara.
"We are ready to facilitate the peaceful settlement of disagreements... We would be happy to provide a platform for Arab-Iranian dialogue, but we do not intend to impose ourselves," the diplomat is quoted by Russian media. The Russian Foreign Ministry noted that it is aware of ongoing efforts to bring the parties back to the negotiating table.
Breakdown of Ceasefire and Escalation
Moscow's proposal came against the backdrop of a sharp escalation of tensions. As of July 20, following the collapse of the temporary ceasefire, the US launched a new wave of strikes against Iran. The attacks have continued for nine nights in a row. Washington explained its decision as a response to Tehran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz.
At the end of last month, Iranian forces attacked a cargo ship flying the flag of Singapore. Similar incidents have been repeated, provoking a harsh reaction from the American side. As a result, instability in the strategically important strait has reached critical levels.
Iran's Position and Pakistan's Role
In response to the worsening situation, the Iranian Foreign Ministry announced the suspension of obligations under the deal with the US, which provided for a ceasefire. Prospects for resuming the truce remain hazy.
Parallel to the main negotiations, Pakistan, acting as the main mediator in the region, called on the parties to return to the terms of the June memorandum. According to the document, Tehran and Washington were supposed to reach a final agreement on ending the war within 60 days. However, there is currently no information about a new round of negotiations in Islamabad.
