On February 28, at the initiative of the Iranian side, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation reported.

The Iranian minister briefed his counterpart on steps taken by Iran’s leadership to repel what he described as U.S. and Israeli aggression, which he said had once again derailed negotiations on a peaceful settlement of the situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. He also informed Lavrov of plans to urgently convene a meeting of the UN Security Council.

Lavrov condemned what he called an unprovoked armed attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, carried out in violation of the principles and norms of international law and with complete disregard for the serious consequences for regional and global stability and security. He stressed the need for an immediate cessation of attacks against the Islamic Republic and a return to a political and diplomatic track.

Lavrov also noted Russia’s readiness — including within the UN Security Council — to assist in finding peaceful solutions based on international law, mutual respect and a balance of interests.