Putin and Erdogan condemn Israeli bombing of Iran, call for diplomatic solutions to Middle East crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan discussed the conflict between Israel and Iran, condemning Israeli military actions as a violation of international norms. The two leaders called for an end to hostilities and a diplomatic settlement of the dispute. They also agreed to continue consultations to find solutions in the light of developments in the region. Israeli bombings have resulted in a tragic toll, with hundreds killed and wounded in both countries, and Iran said negotiations over its atomic program are now "pointless".