Khamenei Message Delivered to Putin Amidst Israeli Signals of De-escalation
Following an indication from Israel that it seeks de-escalation, a message from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was delivered to Russian President Vladimir Putin by Ali Larijani, chief of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, during a meeting in Moscow on Thursday. The content of the message was not publicly disclosed.
The exchange occurred after putin, during a visit to Tajikistan last week, stated that Israel had requested Russia‘s assistance in conveying peaceful intentions to Tehran. According to Russian state media agency TASS, Putin said Israeli leadership indicated a focus on “further settlement and…not [being] interested in any form of confrontation.” He also expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution to the iranian nuclear issue,noting Iran’s apparent willingness to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Russia’s role as an intermediary, stating in a televised interview that Israeli prime Minister Benjamin netanyahu communicated to iran, via Russia, that “there would be no more war with our country” following a phone call with Putin.
Alongside these diplomatic efforts,Russia has signaled continued support for Iran,even in the face of international sanctions. russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Monday that Russia would assist Iran in meeting its military needs, potentially indicating increased security cooperation between the two nations.
Recent reports suggest deepening military ties, including a leaked Russian defense document detailing a €6 billion deal for Iran to purchase 48 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia, with deliveries anticipated between 2026 and 2028.While Iran has provided Russia with drones utilized in the war in Ukraine, Russia’s support during a recent brief conflict involving Iran was limited, suggesting constraints to its backing. Both countries are currently subject to notable sanctions and maintain a strained relationship with the United States and Western powers.
