Nexus of Russia, Iran relationship on display amid US sanctions controversy - analysis
Russia and Iran have had a relationship and ties going back many decades, with Russia being involved in supporting the Iranian regime over a large span of time.
Recent events highlighting the US lifting or waiving sanctions on Russia, amidst soaring oil prices, and speculation about a resurgence in conflict with Iran, showcase the intricate relationship between Russia and Iran concerning the Ukraine and Gulf conflicts. To fully grasp this dynamic, one must acknowledge the symbiotic ties between these two nations. By waiving sanctions on Russia, one inadvertently empowers Iran, and vice versa, as both nations can leverage this against the US.
The history between Russia and Iran stretches back several decades, with Russia playing a role in bolstering the Iranian regime throughout this period. An instance of this occurred during the Obama administration, where the US reduced pressure on Russia by allegedly weakening support for European allies in regards to a missile shield.
This move allegedly prompted Russia to support the Iran deal. At that time, the US was prioritizing the Iran deal, hoping to convince Russia to pressure Iran on its nuclear program, thus showcasing Russia's ability to exploit US priorities.
This relationship between Russia and Iran also predates the conflict in Ukraine. In fact, Iran supplied Russia with Shahed-136 drones, which were used during the invasion to intimidate the Ukrainian populace. Additionally, Iran extended this support to the Houthis in Yemen, likely in 2020 or 2021, illustrating its intent to challenge Israel and other countries.
Russia and Iran often view conflicts as interconnected; for example, Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 after observing the US's disarray in Afghanistan. Following Hamas's attack on Israel in October 2023, Russia capitalized on the situation, hoping to divert attention from Ukraine by engaging in its own Middle Eastern conflict.
Russia is acutely aware of the US's skepticism in the Trump administration regarding Ukraine and continues to exploit these tensions to its advantage. This strategy includes seeking sanctions relief for Russia or increasing energy trade, furthering Russia's grand plan for a more multipolar world. As long as Iran and Russia can manipulate US policies against each other, it will remain challenging for the US to reach its objectives in Ukraine and Iran.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
