Moscow has recently seen the arrival of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to formalize a significant agreement aimed at enhancing collaboration between the two nations. This “comprehensive strategic partnership,” as described by the Kremlin, is set to elevate the level of cooperation between Russia and Iran across various sectors.
The relationship between Russia and Iran is rooted in a complex history of conflict. In the 18th and 19th centuries, both nations found themselves at odds, with the Russian Empire expanding into territories once controlled by Persian rulers. The early 20th century continued this trend, as Russian forces occupied substantial parts of northern Iran, only to leave following the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution. During World War II, both the Soviet Union and Britain invaded Iran, leaving a lasting scar on its historical memory.
The Cold War era saw further tension, as Iran aligned itself with the United States under the Shah. However, following the 1979 Islamic Revolution led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the U.S. was condemned as the “Great Satan,” while the USSR was labeled the “Lesser Satan.” Nonetheless, relations between the two nations improved significantly following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, with Russia emerging as a crucial trade partner for Iran, especially as it faced extensive international sanctions.
One landmark achievement in their partnership came in 2013, when Russia completed the construction of Iran’s first nuclear power plant in Bushehr. Subsequently, Moscow committed to building two more reactors in 2014. Russia’s endorsement was crucial during the 2015 nuclear agreement negotiation involving Iran and six world powers, which provided Tehran economic reprieve in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. This support continued even after the U.S. withdrawal from the agreement during Donald Trump’s administration.
In the context of the Syrian civil war that began in 2011, Russia and Iran cooperated to fortify the regime of Bashar Assad against opposition forces backed by Turkey. Beginning a military campaign in 2015, Russia worked closely with Iran and its affiliated groups to help stabilize the Assad government. However, recent developments, including a rapid opposition offensive, saw Assad’s regime greatly challenged, forcing him to seek refuge in Russia.
Amid these geopolitical shifts, the West has pointed to a $1.7 billion agreement allegedly involving Russian drones and Iranian missile technology signed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Despite these claims, both parties have avoided confirming any such arrangements. Iranian leaders have vociferously supported Putin’s policies, which align with their narratives of resistance, while is reported that Tehran is seeking defense assurances and economic support from Moscow as it faces mounting challenges at home and in the region.
Furthermore, developments in Syria have put Tehran’s regional influence at risk, particularly after devastating Israeli strikes on Iranian-supported groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. This increased hostility has further motivated Iran to pursue advanced military capabilities, including long-range air defense systems and modern fighter jets from Russia, although Moscow’s response has been somewhat limited.
In light of these circumstances, Putin affirmed that the new treaty between Russia and Iran is intended to incentivize collaborative efforts across multiple dimensions. Pezeshkian echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the agreement lays a robust framework for future actions. The treaty spans various sectors, including economic cooperation, military ties, scientific exchange, and cultural collaboration.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated that while the pact includes provisions for defense and security, it represents a holistic approach rather than a sole focus on military alliances. Despite the establishment of this partnership, historically rooted suspicions persist among the Iranian populace regarding Russia’s intentions, particularly amid Moscow’s attempts to maintain amicable relations with Israel.
Recent reports indicate a growing sentiment of discontent towards Russia within Iran’s influential Revolutionary Guard, escalating tensions within the regime. An audio leak from within the Guard’s ranks highlighted frustrations towards Russia over perceived failures in Syria, suggesting that deeper rifts may complicate future collaboration between the two countries.
