TEHRAN – Acting Foreign Minister Ali Baqeri Kani has raised serious concerns over escalating tensions in the region.

Baqeri Kani emphasized the urgent need for effective international action to halt the crimes committed by the occupying regime in Palestine. He noted that these discussions highlighted significant concerns about the current regional developments and the rise in tensions.

According to Baqeri Kani, the Islamic Republic holds the view that the potentially catastrophic consequences of escalating tensions and conflict in the region stem from the irresponsible actions of the United States and the Western backers of the Zionists.

Baqeri Kani asserted that the readiness of regional nations and the Resistance Front to counter the aggressions of the Zionist regime is now stronger than ever. He stressed that the responsibility for any ensuing crisis rests squarely with the Western supporters of the regime.

Iran, Russia discuss bilateral cooperation and regional issues

The acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, and Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Minister, held a telephone conversation on Friday to discuss the latest developments in bilateral cooperation and regional issues.

Baqeri Kani highlighted recent progress in the collaboration between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Russian Federation, notably the signing of a memorandum of understanding on the transfer of Russian gas to Iran and a recent phone call between Iran's acting president and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He described the bilateral relations as advancing steadily and effectively.

The Iranian diplomat expressed optimism that the administrative procedures and legal steps necessary to finalize key documents on bilateral cooperation, including the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty and agreements on gas and transit, would be completed swiftly.

Addressing Lebanon's readiness to counter any potential Zionist aggression, Baqeri stressed the importance of preventing ongoing Zionist crimes and the escalation of tensions to Lebanon, warning of the broader regional and international stability implications.

Baqeri also responded to Russia's initiative to address the issue of Palestine and Zionist crimes during the Gaza conflict at the United Nations Security Council in July, under Russia’s rotating presidency. He confirmed Iran's readiness to participate in these high-level meetings.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, in turn, wished for the successful conduct of Iran’s presidential election and expressed satisfaction with the progress of bilateral cooperation. He affirmed that Russian leaders are committed to advancing their agenda with Iran.

Lavrov also expressed Russia’s shared concern about the potential for escalating conflict and widespread Zionist aggression against Lebanon. He emphasized that Russia aims to prevent such developments and underscored the responsibility of all parties involved.

During the call, Baqeri and Lavrov also discussed various consular matters, exchanging views and addressing mutual concerns.