Russia has publicly backed Iran amid its escalating confrontation with the United States and Israel, signalling strong political support for Tehran at a critical moment in the region.
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday reaffirmed that Moscow would continue to stand by Iran despite mounting geopolitical tensions.
According to Anadolu Agency, Putin also sent a congratulatory message to Mojtaba Khamenei, who has assumed office as Iran's new Supreme Leader following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
According to a Kremlin statement, Putin expressed confidence that the new leader would guide the country through the current crisis.
“Now, when Iran is confronting armed aggression, your work in this high office will undoubtedly require great courage and dedication,” the Kremlin quoted Putin as saying.
“I am confident that you will honourably continue your father's work and unite the Iranian people in the face of severe trials.”
Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has become only the third Supreme Leader in Iran's history. His appointment comes during a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Russia Reiterates Support For Tehran
Putin also reiterated Moscow's commitment to its partnership with Tehran, emphasising that Russia would continue to support Iran during the ongoing crisis.
“For my part, I would like to confirm our unwavering support for Tehran and solidarity with our Iranian friends. Russia has been and will remain a reliable partner of the Islamic Republic,” Putin said in the statement.
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Leadership Change Amid Rising Regional Tensions
The leadership transition in Iran comes at a time of increasing tensions with Israel.
Media reports said that Israeli officials have warned they may continue targeting Iran's leadership as part of their broader security strategy, raising fears of further escalation in the region.
Analysts say the change at the top of Iran's leadership could influence the country's political direction and its approach to the ongoing conflict.
Putin Condoles Khamenei's Death
Earlier, Putin expressed condolences following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had led Iran for 37 years.
According to media reports, the 86-year-old leader was killed in a joint US-Israel airstrike on his residence in Tehran on Feb. 28.
Sunday Guardian reported that Putin also held a phone call late on Friday with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing sympathy over the deaths of Khamenei, members of his family, Iranian political and military leaders, and “numerous civilians”.
The conversation highlighted the close diplomatic coordination between Moscow and Tehran during the ongoing crisis.
Growing Global Divide
Russia's strong backing of Iran could further complicate the geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
With the United States supporting Israel and Russia reaffirming its partnership with Tehran, analysts warn that the conflict risks deepening global divisions.
For now, Moscow has made its position clear: it intends to maintain close ties with Tehran and support Iran during what Putin described as a difficult period.
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