Russia may have provided Tehran with intelligence that could help Iran target U.S. warships, aircraft and other military assets across the wider region, according to two officials cited by the Associated Press who referred to information from U.S. intelligence services.
The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue, said there is currently no indication that Moscow is directing Iran on how to use the information. However, the sources noted that the data could facilitate potential attacks on U.S. targets, as the United States and Israel continue bombing operations in Iran while Tehran launches retaliatory strikes against U.S. forces and their allies in the Persian Gulf.
If confirmed, the reports would mark the first indication of direct Russian involvement in the conflict that erupted about a week ago. Moscow has maintained close ties with Iran for years. Tehran has faced international sanctions over its nuclear program and its support for armed groups in the Middle East such as Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis.
Downplaying from the White House
Washington appears to be downplaying the reports. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that even if intelligence sharing exists, it does not appear to affect military operations in Iran, adding that U.S. forces are achieving their military objectives.
She declined to say whether President Donald Trump had discussed the matter with Russian President Vladimir Putin or whether Washington is considering retaliatory measures.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth struck a similar tone in an interview with CBS, saying Washington is monitoring everything and that the U.S. military has the best intelligence in the world. According to him, military commanders are aware of the movements of all sides and there is no particular concern as necessary precautions are being taken.
Cautious stance from Moscow
From the Kremlin’s side, spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia remains in dialogue with Iran’s leadership but did not confirm any military or intelligence cooperation related to the current crisis. He emphasized that Tehran has not requested military assistance from Moscow and made clear that “this is not our war.”
In recent years, Russia–Iran relations have strengthened significantly, particularly after the start of the war in Ukraine. Washington has accused Tehran of supplying Russia with Shahed attack drones and helping establish a production facility for them on Russian territory.
Ukraine’s role
At the same time, Ukraine appears ready to share its experience in countering Shahed drones with countries in the Middle East.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said discussions are underway with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait regarding possible cooperation.
Ukraine’s ambassador to the United States, Olha Stefanishyna, noted that Ukrainian cities are attacked by such drones almost every night, giving the country valuable experience in defending against the threat.
Strategic balance for Moscow
Analysts say the possible intelligence sharing could serve Russia’s strategy in the Middle East without leading to direct confrontation with the United States.
According to them, Moscow views Iran as a key partner for maintaining its influence in the region. However, deeper involvement could strain relations with Washington at a time when Vladimir Putin seeks to keep communication channels open with Donald Trump regarding the war in Ukraine.
Source: SigmaLive
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