⚡️ Comment by Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova regarding developments in the Middle East 💬 We regret to state that escalation in the Persian Gulf is gaining momentum. The conflicting sides continue to exchange strikes, which are doing large-scale damage to the civilian infrastructure of Iran and Arab countries. The risk of shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea has increased. This situation poses additional difficulties for regional mediation efforts aimed at relaunching the process of negotiations on the basis of the June 17 Islamabad Memorandum between the United States and Iran. ❗️In this connection, we urge all sides in the conflict to demonstrate a responsible approach and restraint and to refrain from any actions that could expand the geography of military confrontation and lead to the further deterioration of the military-political situation in the Middle East. A negative scenario is fraught with critical consequences for international energy and food security. We are firmly committed to the settlement of differences in that strategic part of the world through political and diplomatic means based on respect for the interests of all regional states. Russia is ready to provide the necessary assistance towards this end.