Iran’s international allies have so far reacted timidly to growing U.S. military pressure in the Middle East. However, a secret agreement with Russia could signal a change in attitude towards a possible conflict in the region.
A special investigation of the Financial Times revealed that the partner countries signed a pact to send thousands of portable air defense systems (Manpads) worth 500 million euros to the Iranian regime, an agreement that is already considered the biggest effort to rebuild Tehran’s air defenses destroyed during last year’s war with Israel, which became known as the “Twelve Day War”.
The document, signed by Iranian and Russian officials in Moscow two months ago, commits Vladimir Putin’s regime to deliver at least 500 Verba air defense systems and 2,500 9M336 missiles within three years, according to reports from sources who cited leaked Russian documents.
Verba, one of Russia’s most advanced air defense systems, is a portable, infrared-guided missile capable of targeting cruise missiles, low-altitude aircraft and drones. The paper adds that, operated by small mobile teams, it allows ground forces to quickly create dispersed defenses without relying on fixed radar installations.
US increases military pressure as Iran seeks to avoid conflict through negotiations
The US dramatically increased military pressure on Iran last week, with aircraft carriers, state-of-the-art fighter jets and naval reinforcements already deployed in the Middle East.
Fearing new American attacks, the ayatollah regime seeks to negotiate an agreement with Washington. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced this Sunday that a new round of nuclear negotiations with the US is possible next Thursday and that there is “a good chance” of reaching a diplomatic solution, even with Washington strengthening its presence in the Middle East.
Araqchi said in an interview with the American network CBS who will likely meet with US envoy Steve Witkof in Geneva on Thursday.
“We can reach an understanding on fundamental principles and issues and ensure that Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful and remains so forever, as long as sanctions are lifted,” he argued.
Araqchi had announced on Friday that his country would present its proposed deal within days, while US President Donald Trump set a deadline of 10 to 15 days for diplomacy and indicated he was considering a limited strike against Iran to pressure it to reach a deal.
