Title: US Renews Warning of Potential Iran-Russia Missile Cooperation in Ukraine Conflict
In an alarming development, the United States has issued fresh warnings indicating that Iran might be planning to supply Russia with advanced ballistic missiles to be used in the ongoing war in Ukraine. The White House has alleged that Russia has offered Iran “unprecedented defense cooperation” in exchange for its support in Ukraine, including state-of-the-art electronics and air defense systems.
This revelation has prompted Western governments to impose sanctions on Iran, as the country has already been accused of supplying Russia with kamikaze drones utilized in the conflict. Iran’s military program had certain restrictions lifted by the United Nations recently, which has raised concerns about its potential shift in position regarding the war.
Military analyst Fabian Hinz has argued that it would be logical for Iran to provide Russia with precision-guided ballistic missiles, given the complementary military capabilities of both nations. Notably, last month, certain UN restrictions on Iran’s missile program expired as part of the country’s 2015 nuclear deal, further increasing the possibility of Iran arming Russia.
Iran has already exhibited its Ababil and Fateh missiles to Russian officials. The Ababil missile possesses medium range capabilities, while the Fateh missile boasts long-range capabilities. However, uncertainties persist regarding Iran’s actual decision to provide missiles to Russia, primarily due to political reluctance and the potential for legal challenges.
Several experts believe that Iran’s engagement with Russian officials during military visits may serve as a “bargaining process” aimed at persuading Moscow to furnish Iran with more advanced arms. Moreover, Iran is currently diplomatically engaged with European actors in discussions concerning the war in Gaza, and thus seeks to avoid escalating tensions with the European Union.
Although the US has been consistently vocal about the possibility of Iran providing missiles to Russia for almost a year, no significant policy shifts have been observed from Iran’s side. Furthermore, considering the complex political and strategic landscape involving Iran, Russia, and EU-Iran relations, it is unlikely that Iran would make such a decision to arm Russia at this time.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community closely monitors the developments between Iran, Russia, and the European Union, particularly regarding the potential supply of advanced ballistic missiles. The impact of such an alliance could prove decisive in the Ukraine conflict, as it possesses the potential to reshape the balance of power in the region.
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