Moscow, August 13 –In a significant diplomatic meeting held in Moscow on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and reiterated Russia’s support for the Palestinian people's aspirations for statehood. The meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas comes at a time of heightened tension in the Middle East, following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and the continued Israeli military actions in Gaza.

Before the meeting, the Kremlin released a statement on the social media platform Telegram, indicating that discussions would focus on the Palestinian-Israeli unrest and the severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The British news agency Reuters reported on the developments.

During the talks, President Putin acknowledged the challenges Russia faces due to its ongoing conflict in Ukraine but emphasized that the situation in the Middle East, particularly in Palestine, remains a significant concern for Moscow. "Everyone knows very well that Russia unfortunately has to defend its interests and people with weapons in hand. But what is happening in the Middle East, what is happening in Palestine, is not escaping our attention," Putin stated.

Expressing empathy for the Palestinian people, Putin added, "We are watching with great pain and concern the humanitarian catastrophe that has descended on Palestine." He also reaffirmed Russia’s support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, a long-standing position of Russian foreign policy.

President Abbas, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for Russia’s consistent support, calling Russia "one of the dearest friends of the Palestinian people." He also urged Russia, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, to take action against the humanitarian violations being committed by Israel in Gaza.

The meeting comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with the threat of a broader conflict looming after Haniyeh’s killing. Russia has been vocal in calling for measures to prevent further regional instability.

Abbas arrived in Moscow on Monday for a three-day state visit. Following his discussions in Russia, he is scheduled to travel to Ankara to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

While both Palestine and Israel have maintained ties with Russia, the relationship has grown strained due to Moscow’s recent meetings with Hamas delegations and its open sympathy for the Palestinian cause. Russia has also been critical of Western countries for their failure to establish an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, a position that has drawn Israel's displeasure.

The meeting highlights Russia’s active role in Middle Eastern diplomacy, even as it remains embroiled in its own military conflict in Ukraine.