Why russia supports iran

The feeling is mutual as well: Russia has supported Iran on a variety of important issues and it also views Tehran as an important ally. Collaboration between Iran and Russia in the political, economic, and military arenas has increased substantially in recent years.

The two are also cooperating strongly on intelligence and security matters, as has been observed in Syria and was made clear by the so-called Iran cables, which were recently published by The Intercept and The New York Times. In the economic field, Russia is trying to help Iran weather the U. In doing so, however, the Russians are also securing their own financial interests in the Middle East.

Iran and Russia are also reportedly close to an agreement on using their national currencies rather than the U. Despite these areas of collaboration, Iran is well aware that Russia is not driven by a desire to see an overly strong and independent Iran. The Mashregh News agency, which is close to the Iranian intelligence apparatus, has said that Iran must not be dependent on countries like Russia for support in its military programs, pointing to Russian reluctance to sell its S long-range surface-to-air missile system to Iran.

Interestingly, Iran believes that it will have the support of the Russians in the event of a war with the U. But even then, Russia would be primarily interested in securing its own interests. By Maziar Motamedi.

Published On 13 Apr From: Inside Story. More from News. Belarusian airline stops flying Middle East citizens from Turkey. Afghan mosque hit by blast during Friday prayers. Katz is a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council.

IranSource Apr 23, IranSource Apr 21, By Frederic C. IranSource Apr 8, By Barbara Slavin. Economic Sanctions Iran.