Russia has accused the United States and Israel of carrying out a “deliberate and unprovoked act of armed aggression” against Iran, warning that the airstrikes risk plunging the Middle East into wider instability.
In a statement released by the Russian Foreign Ministry on Friday, Moscow said US and Israeli forces conducted coordinated strikes on Iranian territory in the early hours of February 28. The ministry described the operation as the culmination of extensive military deployment, political signaling, and media groundwork.
“The scope and character of the military, political and propaganda preparations that preceded this reckless step leave no doubt that this is a deliberate, premeditated, and unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent UN member state,” the statement read.
Russia said the strikes violated core principles of international law, including the prohibition on the use of force and interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states.
Moscow also criticized the timing of the operation, noting that it occurred amid renewed diplomatic contacts aimed at easing tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme.
“It is particularly reprehensible that these strikes are being conducted under the cover of a renewed negotiation process,” the ministry said, adding that previous assurances had suggested Israel did not intend to enter a direct military confrontation with Iran.
The Kremlin warned that Washington and Tel Aviv were pursuing “a perilous course” that could trigger humanitarian, economic, and potentially radiological consequences for the region.
Russia called on the international community including leadership at the United Nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency to provide what it described as an objective and unbiased assessment, particularly if facilities operating under international safeguards were affected.
Moscow further argued that attacks on nuclear facilities protected under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty undermine the global non-proliferation regime and could encourage states to pursue stronger deterrent capabilities.
According to the ministry, any effort to dismantle Iran’s constitutional order or remove its leadership would amount to direct interference in the country’s internal affairs.
“Responsibility for the consequences of this man-made crisis, including the spiral of escalating violence, rests entirely with them,” the statement said.
Russia concluded by calling for an immediate return to political and diplomatic engagement, saying it stands ready to support solutions grounded in international law, mutual respect, and balanced consideration of interests.
