Iran Denies Reports of Missile Transfers to Russia Amid Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently met with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in Tehran, where discussions on military cooperation took place. However, Iran has firmly denied allegations of sending missiles to Russia, emphasizing its moral stance against providing any weapons that could be utilized in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Iranian Permanent Mission to the United Nations stated that while there are no legal restrictions on arms trade, Iran will refrain from transferring missiles that may escalate the situation.
U.S. Warns of Consequences as Military Ties Between Iran and Russia Deepen
The denial from Iran follows reports from European intelligence agencies claiming that Russian soldiers are being trained in Iran on the Fatah-360 ballistic missile system. The U.S. has expressed concern, warning that any missile transfer would lead to a "rapid and severe response" from the United States, NATO allies, and G7 partners. The White House has been vocal about the dangers of a deepened military partnership between Iran and Russia, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
- Iran's commitment to not transfer weapons to Russia is seen as a significant stance in the context of international relations and military ethics. Despite the potential for military cooperation, Iran aims to maintain a moral high ground amidst global scrutiny. The Fatah-360 missile system, which has a range of 120 kilometers, is designed for precision strikes, raising concerns over its potential use in the conflict in Ukraine. The U.S. response underscores the delicate balance of power and the implications of military alliances in the region.
