INTERNATIONAL — February 19, 2026

Russian Foreign Minister Warns Against Any New US Attack on Iran

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned that new US attacks on Iran, particularly its nuclear sites, risk provoking stronger defenses from Tehran and described such moves as 'playing with fire.' He noted Iran's adherence to nuclear commitments amid recent conflicts involving Israel and the US.

The Ehtebar Desk — originates with RTA — corroborated by Hasht-e Subh2 min read

Russian Foreign Minister Warns Against Any New US Attack on Iran
Image courtesy RTA

Sergei Lavrov, Russia's Foreign Minister, warned in an interview with Al Arabiya news network that targeting Iran's nuclear facilities would be highly dangerous and could compel Tehran to adopt stricter protective measures.

Lavrov referred to the recent 12-day war between Iran and Israel, in which the United States intervened, stating that any further attack on Iran would amount to "playing with fire."

He emphasized that Iran remains committed to its nuclear obligations, describing the Israeli and US attacks as high-risk actions.

Lavrov's remarks underscore Moscow's position on escalating tensions in the Middle East, highlighting the potential consequences of renewed military actions against Iran.

Read the original reporting at RTA

Reliability assessment

Reported by two outlets (RTA, Hasht-e Subh) with direct attribution to named official Sergei Lavrov's statements in a specific Al Arabiya interview, including concrete details like warnings on nuclear sites and 'playing with fire' phrasing.

Across the newsrooms

Filed by 2 outlets

Filed under

InternationalSergei Lavrov, Russia, Iran, United States, Israel

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