Viacheslav Matuzov

Al Jazeera Mubasher | Source published 20 March 2026 | Interview overview

What the programme discusses

The interview examines the widening Iran conflict and the danger that Gulf states could become further entangled. It connects regional security, relations between Iran and its Arab neighbours, and freedom of navigation.

Questions addressed

• What could turn the confrontation into a wider regional war?
• Can Russia help de-escalate tensions?
• Does higher oil revenue outweigh the risks of instability?

Matuzov's position

Matuzov argues that military escalation risks provoking Iranian attacks on Western interests in Gulf countries and undermining the rapprochement between Tehran and its neighbours. He urges Iran to avoid that spiral and warns that attacks on vital infrastructure could trigger direct retaliation.

He presents Russia's relations with both Iran and Arab states as a basis for mediation. His preferred course is an immediate halt to military operations, followed by diplomacy, potentially including an international conference. He treats stability in the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic interest more important than temporary gains from higher energy prices.

Editorial summary based on the broadcaster's written account, not a verbatim transcript. Questions are paraphrased themes; positions are attributed to the speaker.

Original Arabic interview page: video and broadcaster's report