The military conflict between Israel and Iran is both a problem and an opportunity for Russia. The Kremlin could use tensions in the Middle East to distract attention from its long war against Ukraine.
The UK Ministry of Defence reported this on the social network X (Twitter).
The British point out that Russia has no formal commitment to provide Iran with any military assistance. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed between Tehran and Moscow in January 2025 covers cooperation in a number of areas, including defense and security, but does not include a mutual defense clause.
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The deal differs from those Russia has concluded with North Korea and Belarus, which provide for more specific commitments, the UK Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
Conflict in the Middle East is beneficial to Russia
British intelligence notes that Russia benefits from the conflict between Israel and Iran, as it distracts international attention from the war against Ukraine. In the context of a long-term conflict with Kiev, this could be perceived as a strategic advantage at the diplomatic level.
At the same time, the confrontation in the Middle East will likely negatively affect future supplies of Iranian military equipment for the needs of the Russian army.
