Russia has heightened tensions in the Middle East by urging Iran to minimize civilian casualties in its response to Israel’s alleged assassination of a Hamas leader, rather than advising against escalation.

This pragmatic approach reflects Putin’s interest in the safety of the 1.2 million Russian and former Soviet émigrés in Israel.

Putin asked Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to respond cautiously to Israel, which Tehran blames for the death of Ismail Haniyeh, Fox News has reported.

Iranian leaders have threatened retaliation, potentially leading to war. The U.S. has urged restraint from Iran to avoid escalation, while Russia has advocated for a measured response.

Written by B.C. Begley