The Russian leader has reiterated Moscows readiness to mediate end to hostilities

Russian President Vladimir Putin has spoken with his counterpart from the United Arab Emirates about the worsening situation in the Middle East, according to the Kremlin.

Tensions flared up last week after Israel launched a large-scale bombing campaign on Iran, claiming that the country is nearing the completion of a nuclear bomb. Iran dismissed the accusations and retaliated with waves of drone and missile strikes.

In a phone call with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Putin reaffirmed Russia's willingness to mediate and "facilitate dialogue between the parties to the conflict," according to the Kremlin readout.

The two leaders expressed "deep concern" over the ongoing escalation of the conflict, warning that it "threatens to have the most serious consequences for the entire region." The statement added that both sides stressed the urgent need to halt the hostilities and step up political and diplomatic efforts to resolve contentious issues, including those related to Iran's nuclear program.

The presidents also discussed bilateral relations, noting the high level of cooperation between Russia and the UAE in the political, trade, economic, and humanitarian spheres. They agreed to maintain contact going forward, the Kremlin said.

READ MORE: Israel risking nuclear catastrophe Moscow

Amid rising tensions, US President Donald Trump - a long-standing ally of Israel - called on residents of Tehran to evacuate the city, while repeating the threat by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to assassinate Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to end the conflict.

Putin has held separate phone discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Netanyahu to explore deescalation measures. Trump later spoke with Putin on the Middle East crisis, expressing openness to Russia playing a mediating role.

(RT.com)