The relationship between Washington and Tehran continues to be strained amid plans to deploy 1,500 US troops to the Middle East. US national security adviser John Bolton warned the US had “deep and serious” intelligence on threats posed by Iran. The prospect of warfare in the troubled region has prompted fears Moscow will be dragged into battle if its Iranian allies come under threat.
The Moscow Times reports the fall of the Islamic Republic could “undermine” Russia’s ability to be neutral in the middle east and move towards protecting its interests “including militarily assisting Iran”.
It said: “Russia may provide Iran with operational intelligence prior to or during the break-out of the war with the US.”
The Moscow Times added: “Russia may reserve the option to improve Iran’s defensive capabilities via the supply of more advanced units, should such a necessity arise. “
However it is “highly improbable” that Moscow be directly involved in any potential conflict but “may take certain cautious steps in order to strengthen Iran’s deterrence capacities”.
The relationship between the US and Iran has been strained for over a year, following US President Donald Trump’s decision to pull out of the landmark 2015 Iran nuclear deal.
The treaty aimed to curb Tehran’s nuclear ambitions in return for relief from sanctions.
The US has since imposed new sanctions on Iran aimed at impacting its economy by cutting off oil exports, which has forced Iran to suspend its commitments to the agreement.
However the US President appeared to soften his tone toward Iran, saying he believed it wanted to make a deal.
Mr Trump said: “We aren’t looking for regime change – I just want to make that clear. We are looking for no nuclear weapons.’’
But Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman played down the prospect of reaching a deal with the US.
He said: ”We currently see no prospect of negotiations with America.“
Meanwhile Iranian Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri said the country was not allowed to pursue the development of nuclear weapon as this was banned by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Tensions rose between Iran and the US after an attack earlier this month on oil tankers in the Gulf.
Washington, a close ally of Iran’s regional rival Saudi Arabia, blamed the attacks on Tehran, which denied the accusations.