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Story summary
- Russian President Vladimir Putin has pressed Gulf leaders to reduce tensions with Iran.
- He spoke with leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia to halt escalation.
- Russia's unique position, maintaining ties with Iran and Gulf monarchies, enables mediation to protect oil infrastructure and avert conflict.
- As oil prices rise, Gulf states turn to Russia for diplomacy rather than military action, stressing restraint.
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