Putin Condemns US, Israeli Strikes on Iran, Pledges Support to Tehran Amid Escalating Tensions

Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned the recent airstrikes carried out on Iranian territory by the United States and Israel, describing them as “absolutely unprovoked aggression against Iran” and pledging Moscow’s support to the Iranian people. The statements came during a meeting in Moscow on Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.

The high-level meeting followed a series of significant strikes, including those on three Iranian nuclear facilities by the United States, as confirmed by US President Donald Trump, and continued Israeli operations targeting Iranian sites. These actions have dramatically escalated tensions in the Middle East, prompting global concern.

During his televised remarks, Putin emphasized Russia’s long-standing, reliable relations with Iran. “From our side, we will undertake efforts to support the Iranian people,” Putin stated, though specific details on the nature of the support Russia would offer were not immediately provided. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov later added that the form of assistance would depend on Iran’s specific needs and reiterated Moscow’s readiness to mediate in the escalating conflict.

Iranian Foreign Minister Araqchi, who was reportedly carrying a letter from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to Putin seeking greater backing, thanked Russia for its condemnation of the strikes. He asserted that Iran’s retaliatory actions were carried out in legitimate self-defense. Araqchi also confirmed that Iran and Russia were coordinating their positions on the current escalation in the Middle East.

While Russia has condemned the attacks, particularly the US strikes on nuclear sites, and has maintained a consistent call for calm and mediation, the precise extent of its pledged support remains under international scrutiny. Moscow and Tehran have deepened their ties in recent years, including military cooperation, with Iran supplying drones for Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, a strategic cooperation treaty signed earlier this year reportedly does not include a mutual defense clause.

The ongoing developments underscore the intricate and volatile geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, with major global powers positioning themselves amid rising tensions.