Putin says Israel-Iran deal possible, warns against targeting Khamenei

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said a resolution to end the fighting between Israel and Iran is achievable, while warning that Israeli strikes have only strengthened public support for Iran’s leadership.

Speaking during a televised meeting with foreign journalists, including AFP, Putin said, “We see that today in Iran there is a consolidation of society around the country's political leadership.”

He rejected the idea of assassinating Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying he did “not even wish to discuss” such a scenario.

“This is a delicate issue, and of course we need to be very careful here, but in my opinion, a solution can be found,” Putin added in regards to an agreement between the two sides.

The Russian leader suggested any deal should address both Israel’s security concerns and Iran’s right to a civilian nuclear programme. “I believe it would be good for all of us together to look for ways to stop the fighting and seek ways for the participants in the conflict to find an agreement,” he said.

Putin also revealed that over 200 Russian personnel are currently stationed at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear facility, which was built by Russia’s Rosatom. He said Moscow would continue to support Iran’s civilian nuclear ambitions while ensuring that Israel’s security interests are maintained.