Moscow recently hosted a pivotal meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, culminating in the signing of a significant agreement aimed at enhancing collaboration between both nations. The Kremlin characterized this pact as a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” projecting that it would elevate their cooperative efforts to unprecedented levels.
The relationship between Russia and Iran has been marked by a complex history, transitioning from adversaries to allies over the centuries. Historically, the two nations faced off in multiple wars during the 18th and 19th centuries, with the Russian Empire seizing extensive territories in regions like the Caucasus and the Caspian, previously under Persian rule. The early 20th century saw Russian troops occupy regions of northern Iran, although their presence was curtailed after the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917. Tensions continued during the Cold War, particularly when Iran was allied with the United States under the Shah. Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Khomeini labeled the U.S. as the “Great Satan” while denouncing the USSR as the “Lesser Satan.”
The dissolution of the USSR in 1991 marked a turning point, leading to a warming of ties between Moscow and Tehran. As Iran faced significant international sanctions, Russia emerged as a crucial trading partner and supplier of advanced military technology. A landmark development occurred when Russia constructed Iran’s inaugural nuclear power plant in Bushehr, which became operational in 2013, leading to contracts for additional reactors the following year. Russia also played an integral role in the 2015 nuclear agreement among Iran and six nuclear powers, which allowed for sanctions relief provided Iran curtailed its nuclear program and submitted to international inspections. During the subsequent withdrawal of the U.S. from this accord, Russia offered political backing to Iran.
The collaboration between Russia and Iran took a military turn amid the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011. Both nations joined forces to support Bashar Assad’s regime against numerous opposing factions. By 2015, Russia had initiated a military operation in Syria, significantly contributing to Assad’s attempts to regain control. However, recent events—including Moscow’s focus on its conflict in Ukraine and challenges faced by Tehran due to Israeli actions—culminated in a rapid offensive from opposition and the eventual flight of Assad to Russia, casting doubt on their shared successes.
In light of growing tensions, there have been allegations that in 2022, Russia and Iran entered a $1.7 billion agreement regarding Shahed drones, alongside other reported exchanges of military technology, although these claims have not been officially confirmed. Iranian political leaders have voiced strong support for Putin, echoing his rationale for ongoing military operations. Amidst a struggling economy due to the fallout from the 2015 nuclear deal, Iran is also seeking financial backing and defense commitments from Russia.
The recent downturn of Assad is particularly troubling for Iran, seen as a setback for Tehran’s so-called “Axis of Resistance” in the region. Following Israeli military actions against Iranian-backed groups, Iran is eager for substantial assistance from Russia, particularly in acquiring advanced weapons systems like long-range air defenses and upgraded fighter jets, although Moscow has so far only provided a limited number of trainer jets.
President Putin hailed the newly signed agreement as a “significant breakthrough,” while Pezeshkian characterized it as “a new chapter” in their strategic relations aimed at bolstering trade and security. The 20-year treaty encompasses a wide range of fields including trade, military cooperation, science, education, and culture. While it does not include provisions for military support in conflict scenarios, it obligates both nations to refrain from aiding any aggressor. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, clarified that the treaty is comprehensive and not limited to mutual defense arrangements.
Despite the optimism surrounding this partnership, lingering historical distrust complicates relations, particularly manifesting in skepticism among Iranian citizens and officials regarding Russia’s intentions. Moreover, recent unrest within Iran’s influential Revolutionary Guard, indicated by leaked discussions among leadership, reflects deeper concerns regarding Russia’s role and reliability as an ally in the ongoing turmoil in Syria.
