Iranian foreign ministry spokesman invited Azerbaijan and Armenia to show restraint over escalation in Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh), Mehr News Agency reports.

Bahram Ghasemi stressed the need for pursuing peaceful settlement of disputes through negotiations and dialogue.

Escalation in Karabakh region between Azerbaijan and Armenia is a source of deep concern for the Islamic Republic of Iran, he said.

"Tehran urges its northern neighbors to show restraint."

The two sides must make all efforts to restore peace and settle disputes through negotiation and dialogue, Ghasemi said, expressing hope that all international institutions and mechanisms responsible for resolving the conflict remain committed to their obligations.

Also, Ghasemi extended the Islamic Republic’s readiness to assist and cooperate with the parties to establish peace and security in the region.