Moscow, Jan. 16 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday, during which they discussed the situation in the Middle East and developments surrounding Iran, the Kremlin said.

According to a Kremlin statement, Putin outlined Russia's fundamental approach in favor of intensifying political and diplomatic efforts to promote stability in the Middle East.

On the same day, Putin also spoke by telephone with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the Kremlin confirmed.

Putin will continue efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in the region, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from United News of India....