Russia: Russia on Friday urged the United States and Iran to exercise restraint and avoid any unilateral steps or escalatory measures that could complicate the regional situation.

According to Qatar News Agency, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Alimov, during a meeting with ambassadors of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, affirmed that Moscow's position on the Iranian issue remains unchanged. He emphasized the importance of all parties involved exercising restraint and avoiding any actions that could further complicate the situation in the region.

Alimov reiterated that Russia's stance on the Middle Eastern conflict is consistent, urging all involved to refrain from any unilateral steps or initiatives that could escalate tensions. He highlighted the necessity of avoiding actions that might undermine efforts to facilitate understandings between Iran and the United States.

The call for restraint comes after an exchange of fire between Iran and the United States. The US Central Command reported that its recent strikes were defensive, specifically targeting Iranian missile and drone launch sites involved in an attack against US destroyers.