The conflict around Iran is exposing a clear reality about Russia’s relationship with Tehran. Despite years of closer ties, this was never a full alliance. It was a practical partnership shaped by shared pressure from the West, not a guarantee of support in times of crisis.
Now, as tensions rise, Russia faces a mixed situation. It risks looking like an unreliable partner, but it may still find ways to benefit from the instability.
Why Russia Is Unlikely to Defend Iran
Russia and Iran have worked together more closely in recent years, especially after Western sanctions pushed both countries into similar positions. But their partnership has limits.
Their so-called strategic agreement does not include any obligation to defend each other. Russian officials have made this clear in the past. This means Moscow is more likely to offer political support than any sort of military support.
There are also deeper strategic reasons. Russia does not fully
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