Russian President Vladimir Putin held separate telephone conversations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday, January 16, 2026, addressing the escalating situation in the Middle East. The Kremlin confirmed that these discussions aimed at de-escalating tensions amid significant anti-government protests sweeping across Iran. The protests, which began on December 28, 2025, initially stemmed from economic grievances but rapidly evolved into widespread nationwide unrest challenging the government led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. During his call with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Putin offered Russia's assistance in mediation regarding Iran, stressing the importance of intensifying political and diplomatic efforts to ensure stability and security in the region. Subsequently, Putin spoke with Iranian President Pezeshkian, with the Kremlin indicating continued efforts to de-escalate the volatile situation. This diplomatic engagement follows earlier reports of indirect exchanges between Israel and Iran via Russia, offering non-attack assurances prior to the eruption of the protests in late December. The ongoing unrest in Iran has been described as one of the most volatile periods in decades, with human rights groups reporting a brutal crackdown and a soaring death toll. The international community, including India, is closely monitoring the developments, with New Delhi reportedly preparing contingency plans for the potential evacuation of its nationals from Iran amidst the growing instability.