Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has made several statements suggesting that Israel is provoking Iran and defending Hamas and Hezbollah. Lavrov's comments were positively received in Iran, where state media reported on them. Russia is seeking to bring Turkey and the Syrian regime together and is working closely with Iran. Lavrov also expressed hope for a new meeting between Russia, Iran, Turkey, and the Syrian regime. Moscow wants closer ties with Turkey and Iran and wants to support the Syrian regime, while also backing Hezbollah in Lebanon.