TEHRAN – Mikhail Bogdanov, the Special Representative of the Russian President for West Asia and Africa, held a high-level meeting with Ali Asghar Khaji, Senior Advisor to Iran’s Foreign Minister on Special Political Affairs, to address the growing tensions and challenges in the region.

During their discussions, the two officials exchanged views on the latest developments in several hotspots across the region, including Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen. Both expressed grave concern over the escalating violence and deepening humanitarian crises, emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon to prevent further destabilization.

Since the start of Israeli aggression against Gaza, the regime killed at least 43,972 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured some 104,000 others.

 The situation in Yemen was also a key topic of concern. Both parties condemned the ongoing airstrikes, pointing to their role in perpetuating insecurity and instability in the region. They called for an end to the hostilities and a focus on diplomatic solutions to the conflict.

Khaji took the opportunity to highlight what he described as provocative actions by the United States and Israel in Syria, accusing them of supporting terrorist and separatist groups to undermine the country’s sovereignty. He urged all parties to respect Syria's territorial integrity and to cease external interferences that threaten regional stability.

Bogdanov echoed these concerns, describing the overall situation in the Middle East as deeply troubling. He underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflicts and working toward sustainable peace in the region.

The meeting underscored the shared commitment of Russia and Iran to promoting dialogue and cooperation to resolve the complex challenges facing the West Asia. Both sides reiterated their support for diplomatic initiatives aimed at reducing tensions and achieving lasting stability.