The Israeli diplomat met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Deputy Foreign Minister and Presidential Representative for Middle East and Africa Mikhail Bogdanov, among other high-profile officials of the Russian Foreign Ministry and the Russian Security Council.

"Ushpiz emphasized Tel Aviv's concerns over the Iranian nuclear issue and stated that all paths leading to the growth of Iran's nuclear military potential must be blocked for good. He also stressed that Israel will not allow Iran to threaten its security, including from the territory of Syria and other countries," the ministry said in a statement seen by Sputnik.

Describing Russia as a "key and important actor," Ushpiz said bilateral relations with Moscow were important for "advancing Israel's interests in the region." He asserted Tel Aviv's determination to continue strengthening the bilateral cooperation.

The talks were otherwise focused on bilateral Israel-Russia relations and issues pertaining to security and stability in the Middle East, according to the statement.

Ushpiz delivered a note from Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi to Russia's Lavrov, in which he praised the achievements of bilateral diplomatic relations and announced an upcoming meeting of the bilateral Israeli-Russian intergovernmental trade commission in Moscow.