Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East during a phone conversation on Thursday, the Kremlin said.

According to a Kremlin statement, both leaders expressed “serious concern” over the worsening military and political situation, including civilian casualties and damage to critical infrastructure.

They stressed the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, which escalated on February 28 following strikes on Iran.

The two leaders also discussed the impact of the crisis on global energy markets, warning that disruptions to production and transportation were affecting energy security worldwide.

They emphasized the importance of continued coordination within the OPEC+ framework to help stabilize the global oil market.

The call reflects growing international concern over the broader economic and geopolitical consequences of the conflict.