Both Russia and China on Diplomatic Offensive to Prevent New War in Middle East

President Putin was on the phone today with leaders of Egypt, Israel, Iran, Palestine, Syria, and other Arab states to discuss the worsening situation in the region. He expressed concern that this situation could lead to a larger war and said that Russia was ready to work together with constructive partners to quickly bring a stop to hostilities. He also urged measures to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe. Putin also was clear that the present crisis developed because of the stagnation in moving forward on the two-state solution. Before leaving for Beijing, he called Prime Minister Netanyahu to tell him about his conversations with the leaders.