Putin offers to mediate Iran-Israel conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin is positioning himself as a potential mediator in the escalating Iran-Israel conflict, warning of dire consequences if tensions continue to rise.

In a phone conversation on Wednesday with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Putin expressed “deep concern” over the growing hostilities and reiterated Moscow’s willingness to help broker peace.

According to a statement from the Kremlin, Putin “confirmed Russia’s readiness to provide mediation assistance to promote dialogue between the parties to the conflict.”

Both leaders cautioned that the ongoing violence between Iran and Israel could have “extremely negative consequences for the entire region,” and emphasised the need for immediate de-escalation.

The conflict intensified after Israel launched a large-scale bombing campaign on Friday, prompting swift retaliation from Iran in the form of missile and drone strikes. The tit-for-tat exchange has already caused hundreds of casualties and widespread regional anxiety.

Although Russia has deepened its military cooperation with Iran—especially in the context of its ongoing war in Ukraine—Moscow has also maintained diplomatic and economic ties with Israel. Putin is among the few global leaders positioned to communicate with both sides.

In recent days, the Russian president has reportedly held separate phone calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iran’s newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian, offering Russia’s services as a neutral facilitator in peace negotiations.