By – Aditya Shrivastava
Moscow/Beijing/Tel Aviv/Tehran – Amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, Russia issued a stern warning to the United States against any form of military involvement, calling it a “highly dangerous move” that could lead to severe and unpredictable consequences. Meanwhile, China has urged all parties to pursue diplomatic channels to prevent further escalation.
Russia’s Strong Message to the United States
On Thursday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova addressed growing speculations that the United States might join Israel in military action against Iran. Zakharova said, “We especially want to warn Washington not to engage militarily in this situation. Such a step would be extremely dangerous and could lead to unintended and harmful consequences.”
This statement comes at a time when the region is witnessing intensifying military clashes between Israel and Iran. Russia has maintained its opposition to any further escalation and has called for de-escalation and dialogue.
Putin and Xi Condemn Israeli Strikes, Call for Peace
Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping jointly condemned Israel’s airstrikes on Iranian targets. Both leaders appealed to all sides to prioritize diplomacy and avoid war.
According to China’s state news agency Xinhua, Xi Jinping said, “Parties involved in the conflict, especially Israel, must immediately halt all attacks to prevent further deterioration and avoid spreading the conflict into other regions.”
Speaking to the press, Kremlin advisor Yuri Ushakov confirmed that Russia and China share a unified stance on the issue. “Both leaders strongly condemned Israel’s actions. The top priority must now be to stop the war in the Middle East,” Ushakov said.
Xi Jinping emphasized, “Ceasefire and an end to hostilities are essential. The solution to international disputes lies in dialogue, not weapons.”
Missile Strike on Israeli Hospital Raises Alarm
As military exchanges escalate, a missile strike by Iran on Israel’s Soroka Medical Center in southern Israel has drawn international concern. This strike marks a significant escalation in the ongoing hostilities.
In an official statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed multiple missile attacks on strategic locations, including the hospital. The IDF added that further details would be shared following a complete assessment.
Israel Threatens Supreme Leader Khamenei
Shortly after the missile strike, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued a direct and unprecedented threat against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Speaking to AFP in Holon, near Tel Aviv, Gallant said, “Khamenei openly calls for the destruction of Israel and orders attacks on hospitals. Eliminating Israel is his goal. A man like that cannot be allowed to live any longer.”
Gallant’s statement marks the most severe public warning issued by an Israeli official throughout the conflict.
Israel Strikes Iran’s Heavy Water Reactor
Earlier in the week, Israel carried out a targeted airstrike on Iran’s Arak Heavy Water Reactor, escalating the conflict into its seventh consecutive day. The Israeli military also released satellite images on social media showing the reactor targeted in red circles, warning civilians in the area to evacuate.
The Arak facility, a key component of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, has been a point of international concern for years. This strike may further inflame tensions and increase the risk of broader regional warfare.
Global Community on Edge
With two of the world’s leading powers — Russia and China — publicly opposing Israeli military operations and warning against U.S. involvement, the Israel-Iran conflict is rapidly turning into a complex international crisis.
As calls for restraint and diplomacy grow louder, the world watches anxiously, hoping for a ceasefire and a path toward peace in the increasingly volatile Middle East.