Putin Condoles Iran's Khamenei Death, Calls for Immediate Cessation of Hostilities

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing condolences over the reported assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and related casualties. Putin reaffirmed Russia's call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and diplomatic resolution in the Middle East, noting ongoing contact with Gulf Cooperation Council leaders. Pezeshkian thanked Russia for its solidarity as Iran defends its sovereignty amid tensions involving the United States and Israel.