Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that the latest U.S. strikes against Iran have ended the possibility of reaching a temporary peace agreement, arguing that military action is preventing diplomatic efforts.
Lavrov criticized the resumption of American attacks on Iran, saying they “do not lead to solutions” and “close the door” on negotiations and a possible interim deal.
According to Iranian state-linked agencies Fars and IRIB, Lavrov said the strikes are damaging civilian infrastructure in Iran as well as in countries belonging to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
“It is sad because civilian infrastructure is being damaged in Iran and in the Gulf Cooperation Council states. This is not leading to anything good,” Lavrov was quoted as saying by Fars.
His remarks come amid renewed tensions between the United States and Iran in July 2026, following the collapse of a period of relative calm and efforts toward a temporary agreement reportedly supported by mediation efforts from Qatar and Pakistan.
The latest escalation has been largely linked to tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy route. The United States has carried out new waves of airstrikes against Iranian military targets, stating that the goal is to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten civilian shipping, while Tehran has responded with attacks targeting U.S. bases or interests in Gulf countries.
Lavrov also accused Washington of undermining international agreements, questioning the credibility of U.S. commitments in diplomatic negotiations.
According to the Russian foreign minister, such actions only further complicate the crisis and make a diplomatic resolution more difficult.
