Russia Warns U.S. Against Military Intervention in Iran–Israel Conflict

Photo: AP

Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a stern warning on June 19, urging the United States not to militarily intervene in the ongoing Iran–Israel conflict. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova stressed that U.S. action “would be an extremely dangerous step with truly unpredictable negative consequences”.

Zakharova’s statement followed a call between President Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping, during which both leaders condemned Israel's airstrikes and advocated for an urgent cease‑fire and diplomatic resolution. Kremlin advisor Yuri Ushakov emphasized that Moscow and Beijing believe the crisis must be resolved “exclusively by political and diplomatic means”.

The warning coincides with mounting U.S. debates over possible military support for Israel. President Trump reportedly approved contingency plans for strikes on Iran’s facilities but delayed a final decision for up to two weeks, citing a diplomatic window. Trump’s administration is considering all options, although tactical nuclear weapons are reportedly off the table, and Washington denied planning such escalation.

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Russian officials also cautioned that the Middle East is veering toward an “abyss of instability and war,” highlighting potential spillovers that could endanger Russia’s own regional interests—including safety of personnel at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov warned that even U.S. military assistance to Israel risked destabilizing the region dangerously.

Moscow’s alarm reflects broader concerns beyond immediate escalation. A protracted or intensified conflict threatens Russia’s strategic standing in the Middle East, where Iran plays a significant geopolitical role. Analysts warn that destabilization—especially through regime change—could undermine key Russian investments and influence. Russia officially maintains that its January “comprehensive strategic partnership” with Iran does not obligate military action.

In briefing the media, Zakharova also emphasized that any attack on Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant could trigger a “Chernobyl-like catastrophe” given Russia’s involvement in its operations.

Western diplomats view Russia’s warnings as part of a broader attempt to assert influence over the crisis and position Moscow as a mediator. Putin offered to mediate talks between Tehran and Jerusalem, although it’s unclear if this proposal has traction .

As the U.S. weighs its next move and Israel continues military operations, Russia’s message is unambiguous: any U.S. military escalation could trigger a wider regional war and directly threaten Russia’s own strategic foothold in the Middle East.