ISTANBUL — Russia has renewed its call for the establishment of a Palestinian state following the recent Gaza summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, urging all parties including the United States and regional leaders to honor the agreements reached during the talks.
Speaking at a meeting with Arab journalists in Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasized that Moscow expects full implementation of the summit’s decisions, including an immediate ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli troops, and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.
“It is essential to move forward with the creation of a Palestinian state,” Lavrov said, stressing that a lasting peace in the region is only possible through the implementation of UN resolutions on Palestinian statehood. He cautioned that recent statements from both Hamas and Israeli officials suggest that tensions could resurface if commitments are not upheld.
Lavrov underscored that Washington and regional actors must focus on stabilizing the situation. “The priority now should be the agreed withdrawal of Israeli forces, the delivery of humanitarian aid, and the reconstruction of this beautiful land,” he noted.
Reaffirming Russia’s readiness to assist in the peace process, Lavrov said Moscow is open to participating in any diplomatic framework but will not impose itself. “If the participants of the Egyptian summit consider Russia’s involvement necessary, we will certainly contribute. But imposing ourselves is not our tradition,” he remarked.
The foreign minister further highlighted that Israel must adopt a balanced approach that considers the concerns of its neighbors. “The absence of a Palestinian state remains the most significant factor driving extremism across the Arab world,” he warned.
Lavrov also reiterated Russia’s continued support for the Iranian nuclear deal, saying that Moscow has “never deviated” from its commitments under UN Security Council Resolution 2231, and that cooperation with Iran remains “in full compliance with international law.”
Addressing recent rumors, Lavrov dismissed speculation about the alleged poisoning of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, clarifying that Assad and his family are currently in Russia “purely for humanitarian reasons” following threats to their safety.
He further confirmed that Syria remains interested in maintaining Russian military bases on its territory, though their role may evolve as conditions change.
Commenting on the upcoming Russian-Arab Summit, Lavrov said it will take place once a mutually agreeable date is finalized. He added that an increasing number of Arab nations have shown interest in Russia’s nuclear technology and its peaceful applications.
Earlier on Monday, US President Donald Trump declared that Israel’s war in Gaza had officially ended, following a US-brokered 20-point ceasefire deal. The agreement, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye, included the release of 20 Israeli hostages and 1,968 Palestinian prisoners, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough after months of devastating conflict.
