MOSCOW — President Vladimir Putin on Friday expressed Russia’s readiness to mediate between Israel and Iran in an effort to prevent further escalation after a wave of Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory, the Kremlin announced.

In separate phone calls with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Putin condemned Israel’s strikes and offered Russia’s support in easing tensions.

During his call with Netanyahu, the Russian president emphasized the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to Israeli-Iranian disputes and called for a return to negotiations.

“The importance of resolving all issues related to the Iranian nuclear program exclusively through political and diplomatic means was emphasized,” the Kremlin said.

It added that Moscow stands ready to act as a mediator “to prevent further escalation.”

The Israeli prime minister’s office confirmed that Netanyahu briefed Putin on the latest developments during their conversation.

In a separate call with Pezeshkian, Putin conveyed condolences to the Iranian leadership and people for the casualties caused by the Israeli attacks.

The Kremlin stated that Moscow “strongly condemns” Israel’s actions, describing them as violations of the UN Charter and international law.

Putin also reaffirmed Russia’s full support for diplomatic efforts to resolve disputes over Iran’s nuclear program.

Israel launched its military operation early Friday, targeting nuclear and military sites across Iran, including Tehran, Natanz, Tabriz, and Isfahan.

The strikes killed several top Iranian military commanders and scientists, escalating regional tensions.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed a strong retaliation, which began Friday night with missile and drone attacks on Israeli territory. — Agencies