Netanyahu discusses Iran with Putin and expresses support for Iranian protesters

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation surrounding Iran. Netanyahu told Putin that Israel does not want a war with Iran. In other statements, Netanyahu expressed support for protesters in Iran and said he hopes Iran will be freed from tyranny, suggesting the two countries could become partners again if the current government changes.

Iran's President Pezeshkian accused the United States and Israel of fueling the protests in his country. Putin spoke separately with both Netanyahu and Pezeshkian, and the Kremlin said Russia is willing to act as a mediator between the sides.