Russia Condemns US-Israel Attack on Its Consulate in Isfahan
The Russian Government has condemned the damage inflicted on its consulate in the city of Isfahan, Iran, resulting from US and Israeli airstrikes. Moscow views the incident as a violation of international norms that protect diplomatic facilities.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that the attack occurred the previous Sunday when an Iranian government building in Isfahan Province became the target of airstrikes.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, said that the blast damage was also felt at the Russian consulate complex located in the vicinity of the site. There were no reports of serious injuries in the incident.
“Windows in the office building and residential apartments were broken, and several staff members were thrown by the blast wave,” said Zakharova, according to Moscow Times.
Zakharova characterised the attack as a blatant violation of international rules and emphasised that diplomatic facilities must be protected.
“We call on all parties to respect the principle of the inviolability of diplomatic facilities,” she said.
Via social media, Zakharova also shared several photographs showing broken glass in the entrance area of the Russian consulate in Isfahan.
In its statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry did not directly name the party responsible for the attack. However, Russia expressed concern about the increasing number of foreign diplomatic missions affected by attacks amid airstrikes against Iran.
Russia, known as a close ally of Iran, has previously called for an end to the conflict in the Middle East region. President Vladimir Putin also reaffirmed Moscow’s support for Tehran since US and Israeli attacks began on 28 February.
Meanwhile, media reports suggest that Russia allegedly shared intelligence information with Iran to help target US forces in the Middle East.
In related developments, several Iranian banking facilities and three commercial vessels in the Gulf were reportedly attacked. As the conflict entered its twelfth day, international attention focused on the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran stated it has no intention of becoming involved in conflicts with countries in the region.
The IRGC stated that one of the targets struck again was the Ha’ela satellite communications centre south of Tel Aviv.
Nuclear facilities in Isfahan were severely damaged by US-Israel missiles, with strikes targeting underground tunnel access to block Iran’s nuclear fuel reserves.
Internet shutdowns in Iran have now reached 192 hours (nine days). NetBlocks reported that citizens can only access limited domestic networks.
Indonesian President has called on all parties to exercise restraint and urged that tensions be defused and negotiation steps pursued through dialogue. President Pezeshkian of Iran has called on Russia to support Iran’s legitimate rights at the international level following the US and Israeli attacks.