Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on the United States and Iran to exercise "maximum restraint" following the latest escalation in the Persian Gulf.

Iran Press/Europe: Russian Foreign Ministry in a statement said that Moscow has always considered stability and security in the Persian Gulf as one of the key factors that affect the situation in the context of an entire region. We urge the sides to exercise maximum restraint and caution, not to fall for provocations and aggressive rhetoric, and to act strictly in accordance with international norms and rules," an official for the ministry said on Wednesday.

Earlier today, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani denounced the presence of US troops in the region, claiming, however, Tehran will "never be the one that starts the conflict."

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