Russian and Iranian foreign ministers hold a phone call, with Russia emphasizing the importance of maintaining a ceasefire

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke by phone with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian on the 20th. Amir-Abdollahian briefed Lavrov on the latest developments in the regional situation and the United States’ continuing violations of the ceasefire agreement. Lavrov emphasized that the ceasefire must be maintained under the conditions previously agreed upon by all parties. According to a report on the website of the Russian Foreign Ministry and a statement by the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Amir-Abdollahian said that the United States continues to carry out illegal and provocative maritime blockades of Iranian ports and ships, including the attack on and forced control of an Iranian container cargo ship on the 19th. He said that Iran will closely monitor the relevant developments and make necessary decisions on the basis of protecting national interests and security. Lavrov said that Russia once again stressed that the ceasefire must be maintained under conditions coordinated with Pakistan and previously agreed upon by all parties and released, and pointed out that diplomatic efforts must continue to prevent the situation from getting out of control and even escalating into armed confrontation. The Russian Foreign Ministry said that Lavrov confirmed that Russia is willing to help Iran reach agreements mutually acceptable to both sides with Arab states in the Gulf region. Amir-Abdollahian said that Iran is willing to do everything it can to ensure the passage of Russian ships and cargo through the Strait of Hormuz. (Xinhua News Agency)