Tehran suggests that the Russia-Iran partnership deal may result in increased military collaboration

According to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, a strategic partnership agreement inked on Jan. 17 between Russia and Iran might lead to increased military collaboration between the two nations.

Pezeshkian made this statement in response to a question about potential efforts by Tehran and Moscow to further boost bilateral cooperation in defense and military-industrial sectors in the future.

Additionally, Pezeshkian asserted that the United States and its European allies were trying to portray his country—and Russia—in a negative light.

“They [Western powers] are distorting the image of Russia, as they control the media and dominate banking and international relations, enabling them to exert significant influence on public opinion,” Pezeshkian stated.

Regarding Russia–Iran relations, he commented: “We are witnessing a growing convergence of perspectives and approaches, which is only strengthening.”

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The contract outlines increased collaboration in various areas between Moscow and Tehran.

This encompasses bolstered cooperation between their respective security services, conducting joint military drills, and reciprocal naval visits to each other’s harbors.

As per the agreement, neither side will allow their territories to be used for actions that threaten the other, nor will they assist third-party aggression against either country.

The text of the deal also underscores joint efforts to counter external military threats.

No Mutual Defense Clause

Nevertheless, the agreement does not include a mutual defense clause akin to the one contained in a similar pact signed last summer between Russia and North Korea.

This treaty came into effect last month after a protocol was signed between the deputy defense ministers of Russia and North Korea.

Furthermore, the Russia–Iran pact does not mention the transfer of arms between the two parties, though it does emphasize enhanced “military-technical cooperation.”

Russia has utilized Iranian drones in its ongoing incursion into eastern Ukraine, which is approaching its fourth year next month.

In September 2024, the United States accused Iran of delivering short-range ballistic missiles to Russia for use against Ukrainian targets, a claim that Tehran refuted.

The Kremlin has not confirmed or denied receiving Iranian missiles but acknowledges that bilateral cooperation extends to “the most sensitive areas.”

Upon signing the partnership agreement in Moscow recently, Pezeshkian, who assumed office as Iran’s president last year, praised the accord as a new chapter in Russia–Iran ties.

Putin affirmed that the deal would establish “better conditions for bilateral cooperation in all areas.”

He noted that this encompassed bilateral trade and economic relations, which, according to Putin, are now predominantly conducted in the national currencies of both nations.

“We require less bureaucracy and more concrete actions,” stated the Russian leader during the signing event.

“Regardless of the challenges posed by others, we are capable of surmounting them and progressing forward,” he added, referring to Western sanctions targeting both nations.

Putin also mentioned that Moscow consistently briefed Tehran on developments related to the conflict in Ukraine, and the two nations closely consulted on events in both the Middle East and the South Caucasus region.

Russia and Iran were key supporters of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who sought refuge in Moscow last month following the overthrow of his government by a rebel offensive backed by Turkey.

Reuters contributed to this report.