Russia asks Israel, Palestinians and Lebanon to defuse tensions

Israeli soldiers deploy in an open area near Kibuttz Malkia, in northern Israel bordering Lebanon, on Apr. 7, 2023. (AFP)

• "We call on the parties involved in the conflict to refrain from confrontational steps," the foreign ministry said

MOSCOW: Russia on Friday called on Israel, the Palestinians and Lebanon to end the "escalation" of violence, saying it was "deeply" concerned.
"We call on the parties involved in the conflict to refrain from confrontational steps, to act in the interests of preventing further escalation, ending violence and restoring a sustainable ceasefire," the foreign ministry said.