Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a telephone conversation, the Kremlin press service reported.

Various aspects of the tense situation in the Middle East were discussed. The Russian side reaffirmed its unchanging position in favor of an exclusively peaceful settlement of the existing problems and conflicts in the region. 

Vladimir Putin, in particular, emphasized the importance of supporting the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic, strengthening its internal political stability through respect for the legitimate rights and interests of all ethno-confessional groups of the population.

Taking into account the recent escalation of the Iran-Israel confrontation, the Russian side's readiness to fully assist in finding a negotiating solution to the Iranian nuclear program was outlined.

The sides agreed to continue dialog on topical issues on the international and bilateral agenda.