Russia must not mediate Israel–Iran conflict, diplomat says

If Russia participates in mediating the war between Israel and Iran, it will primarily be helping Tehran.

This was stated on Espreso TV by diplomat Arkady Mil-Man, senior research fellow and head of the Russia Studies Program at the Institute for National Security Studies, and Israel’s ambassador to Russia (2003–2006).

“There is no way out of the war between Israel and Iran other than a political solution. The United States and Israel must be involved in this political settlement. Europe should also take part. Right now, a unique opportunity has arisen for Europe. French President Emmanuel Macron is currently taking a very tough stance on Iran, particularly on its nuclear program. The new German chancellor and the British prime minister as well,” Mil-Man explained.

The diplomat emphasized that Donald Trump's administration must not allow Russian involvement in resolving the war between Israel and Iran.

"Right now, there is a unique opportunity to force Iran to sign a capitulation agreement. It is very important that Russia does not take part in this process. Russia cannot be trusted. If it takes part in any agreement between Israel and Iran, it would mean helping Tehran—enemies of the West and Ukraine. Therefore, let us hope the American side will not allow such a scenario to take place," he added.

• On June 18, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that any potential U.S. military intervention in the conflict with Israel would have serious, irreparable consequences. That same day, during a conversation with journalists, Donald Trump avoided giving a direct answer to a question about a possible U.S. strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities.