By Andrew Osborn
Oct 25 (Reuters) – President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning, expressing concerns that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas could have far-reaching implications beyond the Middle East. Putin criticized the punishment of innocent civilians in Gaza for crimes they did not commit.
Speaking at a meeting with Russian religious leaders from different faiths, held at the Kremlin, Putin emphasized the urgent need to stop the bloodshed and violence in the region. He revealed that he had discussed the issue with other world leaders, cautioning them about the potential for a wider conflagration if immediate action was not taken.
According to a transcript provided by the Kremlin, Putin stated, “Our main task today is to halt the bloodshed and violence. Failure to do so could result in grave and extremely dangerous consequences, not just for the Middle East but also for regions far beyond.”
In a veiled criticism of the West, Putin argued that certain unidentified forces were deliberately instigating further escalation and attempting to involve as many countries and peoples as possible in the conflict. He claimed their goal was to incite chaos and mutual hatred, not only within the Middle East but also on a global scale, by exploiting national and religious sentiments.
Expressing condolences to the families of Israeli and foreign victims affected by the deadly Hamas attack on October 7, Putin reiterated Moscow’s support for a two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli issue. He insisted that this was the only viable path towards a lasting resolution.
However, Putin did not shy away from criticizing Israel’s response, deeming their bombing campaign in Gaza as an erroneous retaliation for Hamas’ acts of violence and hostage-taking. He said, “It is evident to us that innocent individuals should not be held accountable for the crimes of others. The fight against terrorism should not resort to the notorious principle of collective responsibility, leaving the elderly, women, children, entire families, and hundreds of thousands of people without basic necessities such as shelter, food, water, electricity, and medical care.”
Reporting by Andrew Osborn; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
