From: The Associated Press January 18, 2025
Russia signs deal with US' long-time enemy

The presidents of Russia and Iran sign a partnership treaty in a Kremlin ceremony
Russian and Iranian officials say the "comprehensive strategic partnership treaty" covers all areas – from trade and military cooperation to science, education and culture.

Russia's ties with Iran have grown closer after Putin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022
Ukraine and the West have accused Tehran of providing Moscow with hundreds of drones for use to attack Ukraine, which Moscow and Tehran have denied.

Last year, Iran joined the BRICS bloc of developing economies and Pezeshkian attended its summit, which was hosted by Russia in Kazan.

In particular, Iran wants sophisticated Russian weapons like long-range air defense systems and fighter jets to help fend off possible attacks by Israel.

Russia and Iran also pooled their efforts to shore up Bashar Assad's government during Syria's civil war, but failed to prevent his downfall last month after a lightning offensive by the opposition. Assad and his family fled to Russia.

His ouster dealt another blow to Tehran's self-described "Axis of Resistance" across the region, which had already been pummeled by Israel's offensives against two militant groups backed by Iran – Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Israel also attacked Iran directly on two occasions (after Iranian attacks on Israel)

Tehran increasingly needs Moscow's assistance as it faces economic woes and stinging setbacks across its sphere of influence in the Middle East.

In particular, Iran wants sophisticated Russian weapons like long-range air defense systems and fighter jets to help fend off possible attacks by Israel.