Iran seeks Russian air defence amid rising tensions with Israel
Iran has approached Moscow with a request for advanced air defence systems in preparation for a possible war with Israel. The information was provided by "The New York Times," citing Iranian officials.
According to information provided by "The New York Times," Iran has asked Russia for advanced air defence systems, in preparation for a potential conflict with Israel.
Deliveries of defensive equipment have already begun, causing concern on the international stage.
Anonymous Iranian officials involved in war planning confirmed these reports, emphasizing that Russia is already supplying advanced radars and air defence equipment.
In August, there was also a visit from a high-ranking Russian security official, former defence minister Sergei Shoigu in Tehran, which was perceived as evidence of close relations between the two countries.
He met with Iran’s new president Masoud Pezeshkian and other high-ranking officials, which "The New York Times" interprets as a strengthening of the Russian-Iranian alliance, particularly noticeable since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine.
Cooperation between Russia and Iran
Russia, utilizing Iranian military drones, and Iran, tightening military and intelligence cooperation with Russia, are finding common ground amid rising tensions with Israel.
Russian-Iranian military cooperation presents Moscow with a difficult choice, considering significant economic and cultural ties with Israel, where a large community of Russian Jews resides.
Analysts point out that Russia may find itself in a challenging situation, trying to meet Iran's defence needs without jeopardizing relations with Israel.
Colin Clarke from the Soufan Group consulting group noted that if Iran is asking Russia for defence support, it means "it is placing its bets."
The question Russia faces is how to balance support for Tehran without damaging relations with Tel Aviv. Thus, the international political scene is watching the developing Russian-Iranian cooperation with increasing concern, observing the possible ramifications for regional security.
