MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday held separate phone calls with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seeking to de-escalate tensions in the region. The Kremlin said Putin expressed Moscow’s readiness to continue mediation and promote constructive dialogue involving all concerned parties.
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During the call, Pezeshkian briefed Putin on Tehran’s efforts to stabilise the situation and accused the United States and Israel of fomenting unrest. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the 20-year strategic partnership signed last year, which includes joint economic projects.
The Kremlin says Putin offered during a phone call with Netanyahu to mediate between Israel and Iran.
(Israel Today) pic.twitter.com/vW34guKtnH— Sarah Malcangi (@MalcangiSarah) January 16, 2026
While fears of a US strike have slightly eased following remarks by President Donald Trump that killings were slowing, the White House stressed that “all options remain on the table.” The US has repositioned the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and its strike group near Iran, including fighter jets, missile destroyers, and at least one attack submarine. Israel’s intelligence chief was also expected to meet US envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss regional developments.
On the ground, Iranian authorities have largely quelled protests, although arrests continue. In response to the unrest, the Munich Security Conference withdrew its invitation to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation condemned external interference and Western economic pressure for aggravating instability, while Pakistan called on the UN Security Council to uphold international law and respect non-interference.
Amid restricted internet access in Iran, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite network has become a critical tool for citizens to bypass state-imposed blackouts. Activists report that around 50,000 terminals have been smuggled into the country, allowing demonstrators to communicate despite restrictions. While some analysts suggest sophisticated external support may be behind the Starlink distribution, no official confirmation has been provided.
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The ongoing diplomatic and technological developments highlight the complex international dynamics surrounding Iran, with mediation, sanctions, and digital tools all playing roles in the effort to stabilise the region.