SCO Summit and The Quest For Influence!
October 14, 2024
Israel’s Attacks on UN Peacekeepers in Lebanon Raise International Alarm
October 16, 2024
Arshad Mahmood
Russia and Iran have decided to enhance their cooperation on the global stage, frequently aligning their perspectives on international affairs. “Active collaboration in the international sphere is ongoing, and our evaluations of global events frequently align closely,” Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized during a Friday meeting with Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian.
“Active collaboration in the international sphere is ongoing, and our evaluations of global events frequently align closely.” — Vladimir Putin
This meeting on the sidelines of an international forum in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s capital, marked the first direct encounter between the two leaders. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov noted that their discussions covered a range of bilateral issues and the evolving situation in the Middle East. The timing of this meeting is significant, coming amid growing international concerns that Tehran is supplying Moscow with weapons for its ongoing war in Ukraine.
Additionally, tensions have been rising due to increased hostilities between Israel and Iran, along with their respective military allies. Russian state media reported that during their talks, Putin and Pezeshkian focused on regional stability in the Middle East and the broader geopolitical landscape. In his remarks at the forum’s opening, Putin stressed his vision for a “new world order” built around Moscow’s allies, positioning this as a counterbalance to Western influence and power.
The idea reflects Russia’s broader strategic shift towards strengthening alliances with countries like Iran, especially after the international fallout from its invasion of Ukraine. During their discussion, Putin invited Pezeshkian to visit Russia, an offer that the Iranian president accepted, highlighting the desire for deeper collaboration between the two nations. Pezeshkian echoed Putin’s sentiments, stating, “At present, we have many opportunities, and we should support each other in our relations. Our stance on international events aligns closely with yours.” This remark highlights the deepening partnership between Russia and Iran, reflecting their shared interests and strategic objectives on the global stage.
“At present, we have many opportunities, and we should support each other in our relations.” — Massoud Pezeshkian
Putin’s assertion comes at a time when both countries are navigating a complex geopolitical landscape marked by tensions with the West, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. By working closely together, Russia and Iran aim to bolster their positions against Western influence and create a more multipolar world order.
This partnership not only serves to strengthen their bilateral relations but also positions them as significant players in shaping the future of international politics, particularly in their respective regions. As they continue to collaborate, both nations are likely to explore new avenues for cooperation, further solidifying their alliance in an increasingly polarized world.
The ties between Russia and Iran have become increasingly strategic since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Notably, the two countries signed a $1.7 billion agreement for Iran to supply Russian drones, which have been used in the Ukraine conflict. Additionally, the United States has reported that Iran has provided short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, further deepening their military cooperation.
“These measures are intended to further restrict Iran’s financial resources, which are used to support its missile programs.” — Jack Sullivan
These developments have drawn criticism from Western nations. This week, Ken McCallum, the head of Britain’s national intelligence agency MI5, accused Russia and Iran of a “shocking” rise in attempted murders, sabotage, and other criminal activities on British soil. His statement underscores growing concerns about the two countries’ actions extending beyond their immediate regions.
Meanwhile, On Friday, the US extended sanctions against Iran’s petroleum and petrochemical sectors following an Iranian missile strike on Israel. This strike was launched on October 1 as retaliation for Israeli attacks in Lebanon and Gaza, as well as the killing of a Hamas leader in Iran. In response, Israel has hinted at the possibility of further retaliatory measures. The US sanctions, announced by President Joe Biden’s administration, aim to cripple key sectors of Iran’s economy.
US National Security Adviser Jack Sullivan detailed the scope of the sanctions, stating, “Today’s new sanctions also include actions against the ‘ghost fleet,’ which illegally transports Iranian oil to buyers around the world.” “These measures are intended to further restrict Iran’s financial resources, which are used to support its missile programs and to provide backing to terrorist groups that threaten the United States, its allies, and partners,” Sullivan added.
A statement from the US Treasury Department indicated that it can now “impose sanctions on anyone involved in the petroleum and petrochemical sectors of the Iranian economy.”
This move aims to tighten restrictions on Iran’s economic resources, targeting key sectors that help fund its military capabilities.
The US Treasury Department also emphasized its readiness to impose sanctions on anyone engaging with Iran’s petroleum and petrochemical sectors.
The US Treasury Department also emphasized “its readiness to impose sanctions on anyone engaging with Iran’s petroleum and petrochemical sectors, aiming to curtail the country’s financial capabilities”. This move reflects a broader strategy to undermine Iran’s ability to support military initiatives and regional allies, which the US sees as destabilizing factors in the region.
However, the meeting between Putin and Pezeshkian, alongside the escalating tensions between Iran and the West, highlights a shifting geopolitical landscape, where alliances and rivalries continue to reshape the balance of power in the Middle East and beyond. The evolving dynamics suggest that both Russia and Iran are seeking to solidify their positions, even as they face mounting pressure from Western nations.
On October 1, Iran launched missile strikes on Israel in retaliation for Israeli attacks in Lebanon and Gaza, as well as the killing of a Hamas leader in Iran. Following these attacks, Israel has signaled the possibility of retaliatory action. In response, the US has taken measures to strengthen sanctions against Iran.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Ashgabat for a working visit, where he is participating in an international forum.
The Turkmen capital is hosting the “Interrelation of Times and Civilizations: Basis of Peace and Development” forum, which commemorates the 300th anniversary of renowned Turkmen poet and philosopher Magtymguly Fragi. The conference is being attended by various regional leaders, including Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, along with the heads of Central Asian nations such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
During his visit, President Putin is scheduled to deliver a speech at the forum’s plenary session, addressing key themes related to peace and development. Additionally, he is expected to engage in several one-on-one meetings with various leaders, including a significant discussion with President Pezeshkian of Iran.
Their presence underscores the importance of this gathering in addressing shared challenges and fostering cooperation among countries in the region. As these leaders come together, they will likely discuss critical issues such as economic collaboration, security concerns, and strategies for enhancing regional stability.
The participation of diverse nations highlights the conference’s role as a platform for dialogue and partnership, aiming to strengthen ties and promote collective progress in Central Asia and beyond.
Arshad Mehmood is a conflict zone journalist with extensive experience covering the US-led invasion of Afghanistan. Associated with a prestigious American news agency, The Media Line USA. He is a highly experienced journalist with a proven track record of covering inland and across-the-border terrorism and counter-terrorism narratives and incidents. (https://themedialine.org/) Most of his news stories published in The Media Line are also featured on JPost.com, a major media outlet in the Middle East. He can be reached via @RajaAajtv on social media.
