Moscow has acknowledged the potential emergence of a NATO factor in the Middle East and the possibility that the alliance could become involved in the regional conflict. This was stated by Alexander Grushko, deputy minister of foreign affairs for the Russian Federation, during remarks at the Eurasian Economic Forum as reported by RIA News.
He noted that NATO is not currently a player eager to place itself at the center of events. The diplomat suggested that a NATO role could materialize if Washington feels a need to legitimize its own position on the matter.
Grushko reminded observers that Russia and NATO have had no direct channels of contact regarding the Middle East crisis. He pointed to an impression by some that the bloc aims to globalize its agenda and broaden the scope of what he described as the Washington Agreement in practice.
He stated that Washington remains the principal Western factor in the Middle East.
Grushko summed up a key point: when the United States seeks justification for its actions, it is not uncommon for those moves to be framed in a way that pressures others.
At the Russian Foreign Ministry’s briefing in October, officials warned that U.S. steps risk escalating conflicts in the Middle East.
In related developments, remarks from a former Israeli prime minister underscored a firm stance toward Hamas, emphasizing a determination to counter the group’s capabilities.