On May 28, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a phone conversation to discuss how Israel’s neighboring countries have reacted to the recent conflict in Gaza.
Israel’s neighbors, which include Syria, Lebanon and Jordan, have accused the country of escalating the conflict, which has so far claimed the lives of over 250 Palestinians and 12 Israelis. In response, Israel has blamed Hamas, the ruling party in Gaza, for initiating the fighting.
During the call, Putin noted his concern about civilian casualties, particularly the impact on children. Netanyahu has requested that Russia urge countries in the region, such as Egypt and Qatar, to pressure Hamas to end its rocket attacks on Israel.
In addition, the two leaders discussed Iran’s role in the conflict, as Iran-backed militias in the region have offered support to Hamas. Putin has maintained his position that Iran should not be involved in the conflict.
The two leaders agreed to form an international working group with the aim of averting a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Putin offered to lead the initiative and has already reached out to the United Nations and other countries in an effort to end the conflict.
The call between the two leaders is seen as a positive step for peace in the region and comes as 1600 rockets have reportedly been fired at Israel from Gaza since the outbreak of violence. The international community must continue to put pressure on Hamas and to ensure that the ongoing fighting comes to a peaceful resolution.