The Foreign Ministry has issued an appeal to Uzbeks over the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Iran. The ministry underscored the growing tension in the Middle East, which had escalated into an armed conflict.

“The escalation of the conflict undoubtedly threatens stability and peace in the entire region. Civilians, especially women and children, suffer the most,” the appeal underscored.

“Uzbekistan views war not as a way to solve problems, but as a phenomenon that poses a serious threat to human life, sustainability and progress. There can be no winners in a war. The greatest losses are always borne by ordinary people — and today this is once again confirmed,” the Foreign Ministry emphasized.

The Foreign Ministry added that Uzbekistan traditionally pursued a peaceful foreign policy course and will continue to do so. “Our country is building friendly and mutually beneficial relations with all countries of the world,” the ministry added.

"We call on the citizens of Uzbekistan to maintain a peaceful, tolerant and responsible civic stance. It is unacceptable to speak out about what is happening through the prism of religious, racial or other standpoint. We are all obliged to resist any propaganda of hatred and enmity," the statement says.

In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs "strongly recommended" not to give into provocations and offensive calls, to maintain restraint and a healthy approach to what is happening. The department recalled that "preserving interethnic and interfaith harmony in our society is the most important guarantee of overall stability and security."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs once again emphasized that all conflicts should be resolved exclusively by peaceful means - on the basis of international law and diplomatic dialogue.

"Mutual respect and the desire for peace remain priorities of our country's foreign policy," the statement says.

The Foreign Ministry also underscored that many comments about the hostilities between Iran and Israel are appearing on social networks, with some users posting and making statements that hurt people's religious feelings.

"Uzbekistan maintains stable diplomatic relations with both countries. The confrontation between Iran and Israel does not correspond to the interests of our country," the Foreign Ministry said.

The Foreign Ministry offered recommendations on how to act in such circumstances:

• stay cool-headed, restrained and tolerant;
• do not view the armed conflict as a clash of religions;
• adhere to a balanced stance;
• use only reliable sources of information;
• do not make general conclusions based on religion, confession or faith - this can lead to a split in society, confrontation and the growth of radical sentiments;
• monitor reports from the press services of government agencies;
• bear in mind your personal responsibility to society when expressing your opinion and disseminating information.

Earlier, the Foreign Ministry issued a statement calling on the parties to immediately cease fire.