Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict on the U.S. policy failure.

What Happened: Putin, marking his first public statement on the ongoing conflict in Israel, criticized the U.S. during a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani on Tuesday.

"I think that many people will agree with me that this is a vivid example of the failure of United States' policy in the Middle East," Putin said, according to the Moscow Times.

The U.S. "tried to monopolize regulating [the conflict] but was unfortunately unconcerned with finding compromises acceptable for both sides," he said.

Putin and the Iraqi leader convened in Moscow to address the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Hamas.

Putin added that the U.S. had distinct notions about “how it should be done” and exerted pressure on both parties, but each time, it failed to consider the “fundamental interests of the Palestinian people.”

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On Monday, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, also called for a "peaceful resolution as soon as possible."

Why It Matters: Hamas, in control of Gaza for over 15 years, initiated its attack on Israel over the weekend — on the day following the 50th anniversary of the 1973 Yom Kippur War's commencement. The group's actions included rocket launches into Israel, invasions of towns, civilian deaths, and kidnappings.

Considered a terrorist organization by multiple nations, including the U.S. and the European Union, Hamas faced retaliation from Israel, which retook the invaded area and launched strikes into Gaza. This has led to hundreds of casualties on both sides.

The United States is significantly increasing its support to Israel, which includes enhancing air defense capabilities and supplying munitions. “The brutality of Hamas’ bloodthirstiness brings to mind the worst rampages of ISIS,” President Joe Biden said in his address.

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