Russia Warns of 'Explosive' US-Iran Standoff as Regional Tensions Simmer

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has described the current standoff between the United States and Iran as “explosive" and warned that the wider West Asia region is filled with “time bombs" that could be triggered by missteps. Speaking to Russian state broadcaster RT, Lavrov said Moscow was not trying to insert itself as a mediator between Tehran and Washington but was closely watching developments. “Iran is our close partner and neighbour. We are not indifferent to how the situation develops, especially since it is explosive not only for Iran but also for the entire Middle East," he said in remarks carried by state news agency TASS. “There are too many time bombs waiting to be triggered by a clumsy foot. The Iranians and Israelis know that we are ready to help implement any agreements, should they be reached," Lavrov added. His comments come as Iran and the United States prepare to hold talks in Oman on Friday, their first direct engagement in months. Tehran wants the discussions to focus strictly on its nuclear programme, while Washington is pressing for a broader agenda. The two sides held several rounds of Oman-mediated talks in 2025, but diplomacy collapsed after the Iran-Israel conflict escalated. Days before the sixth round of discussions, the United States carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, derailing negotiations. US President Donald Trump has since threatened renewed military action against Iran following its crackdown on anti-government protests. At the same time, he has indicated that Tehran may still be open to a deal. Washington insists that any agreement must address Iran’s ballistic missile programme and its support for militant groups across the region, demands that Tehran has repeatedly rejected.