Russia has warned against rising tensions surrounding Iran and called for restraint amid a U. S. military build-up in the area, expected to be complete by mid-March. U. S. threats to bomb Iran amid stalled nuclear talks have led to higher oil prices. Recently, a Russian corvette participated in Iranian naval drills in the Gulf of Oman, a key passage for global energy. After negotiations on Tuesday, Iranian officials mentioned establishing ‘guiding principles,’ but significant differences remain, as noted by the White House press secretary. Iran is expected to present a written proposal to address U. S. concerns.
President Trump has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran unless a deal is reached and has deployed military assets to the region, raising fears of conflict. In June, U. S. and Israeli forces bombed Iranian nuclear sites. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss Iran soon. The U. S. aims for Iran to completely halt uranium enrichment and eliminate long-range ballistic missiles, as well as stop its support for groups in the Middle East and repressing domestic protests. Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful and will not negotiate issues beyond that topic.
Poland has advised its citizens to leave Iran, indicating growing alarm about the situation. Tensions escalated in January when Trump renewed threats following a violent crackdown on protests in Iran.
With information from Reuters
