Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss ongoing regional tensions in the Middle East, according to a Kremlin statement. During the call, Putin expressed condolences over the deaths of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, his family members, and senior military officials in a joint U.S.-Israel attack.

The Kremlin said Putin emphasized the urgent need to end hostilities and return to political and diplomatic solutions, reaffirming Russia’s stance against the use of force. It also noted that Putin has been maintaining regular contact with leaders of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries as tensions in the region escalate.

According to the statement, Pezeshkian thanked Moscow for its support during the crisis and expressed gratitude for Russia’s solidarity with the Iranian people defending their sovereignty and independence. He also briefed Putin on the latest developments, and both sides agreed to continue communication through various channels.