Russia and Iran Discuss U.S. Actions in Hormuz Strait

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a phone conversation on the 20th, discussing key issues related to U.S. actions in the Hormuz Strait. According to Odaily, Iran informed Russia about its stance on three main topics: the U.S. violation of ceasefire agreements, the illegal maritime blockade of the Hormuz Strait, and the seizure of Iranian container ships. Iran assured Russia that it would do its utmost to ensure the unobstructed passage of Russian ships and goods through the Hormuz Strait. Russia emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire within the parameters initially coordinated and announced by Pakistan, the mediator. The Russian side stressed the need for continued diplomatic efforts to prevent the situation from escalating out of control and to avoid the recurrence of armed conflict. Russia reiterated its willingness to assist Iran in reaching mutually acceptable agreements with Gulf Arab countries.