Iranian officials have reported that Russia has begun supplying advanced air defense and radar equipment to Iran, following Tehran’s request for these arms, according to a New York Times report.
Local Iranian media had initially revealed Tehran’s request for the equipment, which was later confirmed by an Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps member and another official. The delivery of this equipment has since commenced.
This development comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly concerning the potential for an Iranian retaliation against Israel. This tension follows Israel’s alleged assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31. Iran has vowed to retaliate, raising fears that this could escalate into a broader conflict in the region. Hezbollah, an Iranian proxy group, has also threatened to attack Israel from Lebanon in response to the assassination of its military leader Fuad Shukr, which was reportedly carried out by Israel.
Israel has stated its readiness to defend itself and has considered preemptive strikes against Iran to prevent any potential attacks. On Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and security officials discussed the possibility of striking Iran preemptively. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized the need for readiness to quickly respond to any Iranian aggression.
The Times report did not specify the types of equipment requested or delivered, though Iran already possesses some Russian S-300 air defense systems. Russia has more advanced S-400 systems, which could potentially be part of the new deliveries.
In April, Iran launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, claiming it was in retaliation for Israel’s killing of a senior Iranian commander in Syria. The attack, involving around 300 missiles and drones, was largely intercepted by Israeli defense systems, resulting in minimal damage but serious injury to a young Bedouin girl.
In response, Israel reportedly targeted an S-300 system near an Iranian nuclear site, although this has not been officially confirmed.
The report coincides with Iranian state media’s announcement that President Masoud Pezeshkian has affirmed Tehran’s commitment to strengthening ties with Russia. Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Russia’s support during difficult times and criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza and the assassination of Haniyeh as violations of international law.
Iran has been arming and training proxy groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and Yemen’s Houthis to conduct attacks against Israel and other targets in the region.
The conflict intensified on October 7 when Hamas launched a major attack on Israel, resulting in 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 individuals to Gaza. Israel’s military response aimed to dismantle Hamas in Gaza and rescue the hostages.
Russia, which has generally supported Hamas and allied groups since the October 7 attack, condemned Haniyeh’s killing and urged all parties to avoid actions that could lead to a wider regional conflict.
Pezeshkian stated that shared goals between Iran and Russia in promoting a multipolar world would contribute to global security and peace. Sergei Shoigu, Russia’s security council secretary, met with Iranian officials, including Rear Admiral Ali Akbar Ahmadian, a senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander.
Following October 7, Hezbollah escalated attacks on Israel’s northern border, claiming support for Gaza. The ongoing violence, including rocket and drone attacks, has displaced thousands and heightened fears of further conflict. Efforts are underway by the US and regional countries to de-escalate the situation and prevent a broader war.