Russia’s Foreign Ministry on Monday said it had summoned Israel’s Ambassador over air strikes close to Moscow’s forces near the historic Syrian city of Palmyra.

Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov told Interfax news agency that Ambassador Gary Koren was summoned on Friday and “asked about” the strikes. The Ministry “expressed concern” about the action taking place near Russian military locations, Mr. Bogdanov said.

Hotline set up

Russia and Israel have set up a “hotline” aimed at avoiding air clashes over Syria and Mr. Bogdanov said Moscow “would like this channel to work more effectively” to ensure no “misunderstanding on who is doing what”.