Moscow [Russia], October 14: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov voiced concern on Monday that US President Donald Trump's plan to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict lacks clarity on the crucial issue of Palestinian statehood, emphasizing that the proposal appears to focus solely on the Gaza Strip.
Speaking to journalists from Arab nations in Moscow, Lavrov said Russia has "noticed that Donald Trump's peace plan refers only to the Gaza Strip", adding that while the plan mentions statehood, it does so "only in very general terms".
"It is essential to expand these approaches, including by clarifying what will happen in the West Bank," Lavrov added. His remarks marked Moscow's clearest position yet on the US initiative, signaling that Russia does not view the Trump plan as sufficiently detailed or comprehensive. Still, Lavrov expressed hope that all agreements reached between Israel and Hamas under the plan would be implemented.
President Vladimir Putin had previously indicated that Russia stands ready to support peace efforts by leveraging its extensive regional ties. During the meeting, Lavrov reiterated Russia's longstanding stance that a lasting peace in the Middle East depends on the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state. "It will be necessary to move toward the creation of a Palestinian state," he said, stressing that a long-term resolution can only be achieved through the implementation of relevant United Nations resolutions.
"We are hearing statements from both Hamas and Tel Aviv suggesting that matters are not over yet and that the crisis could recur," Lavrov warned, underscoring the fragile nature of the current ceasefire. He urged Washington and regional leaders to focus on concrete steps, including "the agreed-upon withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the provision of humanitarian assistance, and the reconstruction of this beautiful place on Earth". Lavrov noted that Moscow "will assist in every possible way" in implementing the peace plan but cautioned against altering what he described as its "fragile formulations". Russia's role in peace efforts While reaffirming Russia's readiness to engage in diplomatic efforts, Lavrov said Moscow would not impose its participation.
"If the participants in the Egyptian summit deem it necessary to involve Russia in the process, we will not refuse," he said. "But it is not in our tradition to impose our services." Lavrov also called on Israel to recognize the importance of pursuing a "balance of interests" rather than policies that disregard the concerns of neighboring states. "The unresolved issue of establishing a Palestinian state remains the most significant factor fueling extremism in the Arab world," he said.
Regional and international context The Russian foreign minister also reaffirmed Moscow's continued support for the Iranian nuclear deal, saying that Russia "has never deviated" from its commitments under UN Security Council Resolution 2231 and continues to supply Iran with equipment "in full compliance with international law".
Addressing reports about former Syrian President Bashar Al Assad, Lavrov dismissed rumors of poisoning, clarifying that Assad and his family are in Russia "for purely humanitarian reasons" following threats to their lives. He added that Syria remains interested in maintaining Russian military bases, though their role may evolve under "new conditions". Lavrov confirmed that the long-anticipated Russian-Arab summit would take place once both sides agree on a suitable date. He also highlighted growing Arab interest in Russia's expertise in nuclear energy and its peaceful applications, underscoring the expanding scope of Moscow's partnerships across the region.
Earlier on Monday, President Trump announced that Israel's war on Gaza had officially ended after Hamas released 20 living Israeli hostages as part of a US-brokered 20-point ceasefire agreement. The deal also includes the release of 1,968 Palestinian prisoners and was mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye.
Lavrov welcomed the progress and expressed strong support for the international peace summit on Gaza currently underway in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. He emphasized the urgent need to implement all agreed measures, including an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Palestinian territories. Outlining the key steps for achieving lasting stability, Lavrov said: "I believe it is crucial that those who initiated this forum focus on achieving an immediate ceasefire, adherence to the agreed-upon withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the establishment of humanitarian aid, and the reconstruction of this beautiful place on Earth." He praised the mediation efforts of President Trump, Egyptian leadership, Qatar, and Türkiye in facilitating the diplomatic process, noting that the success of any peace initiative will depend on collective political will and respect for international law.
Source: Qatar Tribune
