Russia has been assisting Iran in targeting US military assets in the Middle East by sharing intelligence and providing various forms of military support. Officials familiar with US intelligence indicate that Russia has provided Iran with information that could help them strike US warships, aircraft, and other American assets in the region. This marks the first indication of Moscow's involvement in the conflict between the US and Israel against Iran.
Further reports suggest that Russian satellites have conducted numerous detailed imagery surveys of military facilities and critical sites across the Middle East. These surveys, totaling at least 24 over 46 "objects" in 11 countries, covered US and other military bases, airports, and oil fields between March 21 and March 31. This intelligence, including the positioning of US-made THAAD air defense systems, was then shared with Iran. Following these surveys, several military bases and headquarters were targeted by Iranian ballistic missiles and drones, indicating a clear pattern of Russian intelligence preceding Iranian attacks.
In addition to intelligence sharing, Russia and Iran have deepened their military ties, with Russia reportedly shipping drone components, ammunition, and TNT to Iran through the Caspian Sea to replenish stockpiles. There are also reports of a secret $589 million arms deal signed in December, where Russia committed to delivering 500 man-portable "Verba" launch units and 2,500 "9M336" missiles to Iran over three years. The collaboration also extends to the cyber domain, with Russian and Iranian hacker groups reportedly interacting and collaborating, including groups like "Z-Pentest Alliance" and "Handala Hack."
Despite the reports, White House officials have downplayed the impact of Russia's support, stating that it is not affecting the operational success of US military operations. However, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed that the US is "tracking everything" and factoring it into battle plans. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that while there is dialogue with Iran, there has been no request for military assistance beyond political support. This cooperation between Russia and Iran comes as both countries seek to strengthen their positions, with Iran supplying attack drones to Russia for its war in Ukraine, and Russia providing support in return.
