Russia warned that global energy and food security could be seriously at risk if the conflict in the Middle East spreads. In a written statement on July 23, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova said tensions in the Persian Gulf region had reached alarming levels.
Zakharova noted that mutual attacks between the parties had caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure in Iran and Arab countries. The Russian diplomat pointed out the growing risk of maritime traffic coming to a halt in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.
Zakharova stated that the current situation was also complicating regional mediation efforts aimed at restarting a negotiation process based on the 'Islamabad Memorandum' signed between the US and Iran on June 17, and called on all parties.
Zakharova said, 'We call on all parties to the conflict to show a responsible approach and restraint, and to refrain from actions that could lead to the expansion of the armed conflict's geography and further deterioration of the military-political situation in the Middle East.'
Stressing that Russia consistently advocates for resolving existing disputes in the strategic region through political and diplomatic means, taking into account the interests of all regional states, Zakharova said, 'Russia is ready to provide the necessary assistance to achieve this goal.'