Iran Requests Russian Air Defense Support Amid Rising Tensions with Israel
In the context of escalating tensions with Israel, Iran is said to have reached an agreement with the world’s major power, with Israel asking Russia to provide advanced air defense systems. The New York Times reported on August 6, citing unnamed Iranian officials, that this request was made amid growing concerns about the possibility of Iran attacking Israel.
On August 5, Secretary of the Russian Security Council Sergei Shoigu visited Tehran to meet with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and senior security officials. The visit comes as Iran is considering its response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, an event for which Iran blames Israel and vows to “punish”. Israeli officials have yet to claim responsibility for the assassination.
Iranian state television showed Shoigu greeting Iranian General Mohammad Bagheri, followed by a larger meeting that included members of the Russian delegation and Iranian military officials. Mr. Shoigu reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to fully cooperate with Iran in regional issues. Bagheri emphasized the deep, long-term and strategic nature of the Iran-Russia relationship, which he expected to expand further under the new Iranian government.
The report did not specify the type of air defense system Iran requested or whether Russia would agree to provide them. Iran already possesses several Russian S-300 air defense systems, although Russia currently has more advanced S-400 systems.
Russia, using 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 its important economic and cultural ties with Israel, where a large Jewish community lives.
Analysts point out that Russia may find itself in a difficult situation trying to meet Iran’s defense needs without jeopardizing its relationship with Israel.
