Russia’s Putin speaks to leaders of Qatar and Bahrain

The Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin held calls with the leaders of Qatar and Bahrain, in which they voiced concern about the expanding hostilities.

In a call with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, “mutual concern was expressed about the risks of the conflict’s escalation and the danger of third countries becoming involved,” the Kremlin said. It added that the two leaders “expressed hope that Iran’s retaliatory actions will not harm civilians or civilian infrastructure in neighboring countries.”

The Kremlin’s readout described U.S. and Israeli attack on Iran as a “flagrant violation of international law that has led to grave and tragic consequences for the Iranian people.”

Speaking to Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Putin confirmed Russia’s readiness to use all available means to actively contribute to stabilizing the situation in the region. — AP