Putin dials Netanyahu for second time in two months; Gaza ceasefire, Iran nuclear concerns in focus

Putin and Netanyahu last spoke in October, when they discussed the US plan shortly after it was unveiled.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Saturday, held a telephone conversation to review developments in West Asia, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

In a brief social media statement, the ministry said the two leaders exchanged views on the Middle East situation “in light of the agreement on ceasefire and the exchange of detained persons.”

A fuller statement released through state-run agency TASS said the discussion covered the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, the detainee exchange, the situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme, and efforts to stabilise Syria.

Notably, the call comes as the U.S. continues to lobby the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to support its draft resolution based on former President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza Peace Plan.

The proposal calls for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, the release of hostages, and the establishment of an internationally overseen transitional administration, referred to as a “Board of Peace”, along with demilitarisation and long-term reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.

Putin and Netanyahu last spoke in October, when they discussed the US plan shortly after it was unveiled. Israel has publicly supported the proposal, while Hamas has not fully accepted its terms.

The Times of Israel reported that Putin initiated Saturday’s call, describing it as part of a recent series of conversations between the two leaders. Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the call but did not provide further details.

The US initiative, however, faces resistance.

According to the Associated Press, citing four UN diplomats, both China and Russia have called for the proposed “Board of Peace” to be removed from the UNSC resolution. Some Arab states have also expressed concerns about the temporary governing structure for Gaza and the lack of a transitional role for the Palestinian Authority.