• Putin also holds phone call with Iranian president, who informs Russian counterpart of Tehran's 'active efforts to normalize situation in country'

ISTANBUL

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday called for stepping up political and diplomatic efforts to ensure stability in the Middle East, including around Iran, in a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Putin outlined his "fundamental stance in favor of stepping up political and diplomatic efforts aimed at ensuring the region's stability and security,” according to a Kremlin statement.

Noting that Putin and Netanyahu discussed the situation in the Middle East and the situation surrounding Iran, the statement said Moscow confirmed its readiness to continue undertaking mediation efforts and promote dialogue.

“The Russian side confirmed its commitment to continuing making mediation efforts and promoting a constructive dialogue involving all concerned parties,” the statement said.

It added that both Putin and Netanyahu agreed to continue contacts at various levels.

In a separate statement, the Kremlin said Putin also held a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, during which the latter informed his Russian counterpart about Tehran's "active efforts to normalize the situation in the country."

"It was noted that Russia and Iran consistently support a swift de-escalation of tensions around Iran and in the region as a whole, and that emerging issues are resolved exclusively through political and diplomatic means," the statement said.

It said that both sides reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further bolstering their strategic partnership and the practical implementation of joint economic projects in various fields.

The phone calls came amid heightened regional tensions over fears of a possible US strike against Iran.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly vowed to back protesters in Iran, where anti-government protests have swept the country since last month, though he softened his rhetoric during remarks at the White House late Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials have accused the US and Israel of backing “riots” and “terrorism” in the protests.

Authorities have not released official figures on casualties or detainees. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), a US-based group, estimates that more than 2,600 people have been killed, including protesters and security personnel.