Russia condemns sharp escalation between Israel and Iran

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) – Russia on Friday condemned the sharp escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran and urged its citizens to avoid traveling to Israel amid the deteriorating security situation.

“The Russian Foreign Ministry, following President (Vladimir) Putin’s instructions, will soon issue a detailed statement regarding the escalation,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that Putin is monitoring developments in real time.

The Russian Embassy in Tel Aviv warned citizens to refrain from visiting Israel and recommended those already in the country leave if possible.

“Those who can should leave Israel until the situation normalizes,” the embassy said, urging citizens to remain calm, follow local security guidance, and stay near safe areas.

The warnings followed large-scale Israeli airstrikes early Friday, with army spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin reporting that 200 Israeli planes dropped 330 munitions on targets in Iran.

The strikes killed several top Iranian officials, including Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Commander Hossein Salami.

In retaliation, Iran launched more than 100 drones toward Israel, with interception efforts ongoing.

Both sides are reportedly preparing for further military confrontations, including potential Iranian ballistic missile strikes.