Russia calls on Palestinian and Israeli sides to avoid escalation

Moscow, September 10 (KUNA) -- Russia urged the Palestinian and Israeli sides on Thursday to exercise responsibility and avoid steps that could escalate tensions, following threats issued by several members of the Israeli government against the leadership of the Palestinian National Authority. In an official statement, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Moscow was closely monitoring developments in the Palestinian territories with concern, emphasizing the need to prevent measures that could heighten escalation or undermine prospects for a political settlement to the conflict. It stressed the importance of restraint and refraining from statements and actions that could lead to further tensions. Russia reaffirmed that resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict requires political and diplomatic efforts based on international law and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. The Russian position comes amid ongoing escalation in the occupied Palestinian territories, particularly in the West Bank, coinciding with the continuation of Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip. (End) D.A.N. / S.A.M.