Russia warns Iran conflict could trigger broader Middle East nuclear race

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has underscored his country’s stance against escalating tensions with Iran, emphasizing Moscow remains unconvinced by claims that the Iranian regime is pursuing nuclear weapons. During talks in Moscow, Lavrov told Brunei’s foreign minister: “We still see no evidence that Iran was developing nuclear weapons; it was the main justification for any military action.”

US President Donald Trump has outlined various motivations behind his decision to launch a military strike against Iran, including fears of Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. On Monday, he provided one of his most detailed explanations yet.

Lavrov reiterated Russia’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities: “As an unconditional first step, we must do everything possible to stop any actions that result in civilian casualties.” This includes the reported bombing of a school in Iran by US forces, which Tehran claims resulted in more than 160 deaths. Iranian state media have accused Israel and the United States of the attack.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed these allegations, asserting that US military personnel would not deliberately target schools or other civilian infrastructure. “US forces will not deliberately attack a school,” he stated firmly.

The fallout from this conflict is affecting the broader Middle East region. Lavrov noted: “We see how consequences are being felt throughout the area, with Arab countries bearing both economic costs and suffering casualties.” Russia has been vocal in its support for peace efforts aimed at de-escalating the situation.

With tensions escalating further, Lavrov’s call for restraint rings especially urgent, highlighting the critical importance of preventing any new arms race or exacerbation of regional conflict. As the world watches closely, the international community must remain committed to diplomatic avenues and a ceasefire to prevent an even more dire outcome in one of the most volatile regions globally.