MOSCOW, November 20. /TASS/. Russian presidential envoy for the Middle East and African countries, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov discussed with Israeli Ambassador to Moscow Alexander Ben Zvi the tasks of safe evacuation of all Russian citizens from the Gaza Strip and release of hostages held by Hamas.

"The conversation focused on topical issues on the Russian-Israeli agenda with an emphasis on the importance of maintaining an active political dialogue. Regarding the ongoing confrontation in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone, the Russian side reiterated the need for coordinated efforts aimed at a quick solution to a set of humanitarian tasks. These tasks include ensuring the safe departure of all Russian citizens from the Gaza Strip and the release of all hostages held by Hamas, including those with Russian citizenship," the ministry said.

Since November 12, more than 500 people have been delivered to Russia by special flights from the Gaza Strip. According to Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, more than 1,000 people have signed up for evacuation. The Russian Emergencies Ministry specified that the number of Russians willing to evacuate from the Gaza Strip is constantly increasing. The ministry promised to bring each of them home.