Lavrov Warns Iran Conflict Harms Global Economy While Slamming Western Blocs in Asia

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned that mounting geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran are exerting a severe negative impact on the global economy. Speaking at a joint press conference in Moscow following diplomatic talks with East Timor Foreign Minister Bendito Freitas, Lavrov stated that Russia remains deeply concerned about the confrontations pitting the Islamic Republic of Iran against the United States and Israel, emphasizing the necessity of resolving disputes through diplomatic frameworks.\n\nLavrov underlined that Moscow is closely monitoring regional de-escalation efforts, expressing optimism about mediator initiatives led by regional powers including Egypt, Pakistan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia to redirect current frictions onto political tracks. "This situation worries us very much and has a very negative impact on the entire global economy," Lavrov said, calling for continued multilateral engagement to prevent further escalation in the Persian Gulf and broader Middle East.\n\nBeyond the Middle East, the Russian diplomat addressed regional security across Central and East Asia, affirming Moscow's readiness to mediate frictions between Pakistan and Afghanistan after disagreements hindered a joint declaration at the Moscow Format talks. Lavrov simultaneously accused the United States, alongside European partners, Australia, and Japan, of undermining ASEAN centrality by constructing exclusive minilateral blocs across the Asia-Pacific region, which he argued lack consensus-based diplomacy.\n\nAddressing broader security matters, Lavrov remarked on reports concerning NATO developing Eastern flank military strategies, specifically referencing Bloomberg reports on an upcoming military concept. He noted that Moscow remains philosophically detached from shifting rhetoric while staying militarily vigilant to neutralize threats directed toward Russian territory, including Kaliningrad, in line with directives set by President Vladimir Putin.