Iran sends a letter to President Putin via its foreign minister urging Moscow to step up support amid escalating US-Israeli military action

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]mid intensifying military strikes by the United States and Israel, Iran has reportedly appealed directly to Russia for stronger backing, signalling dissatisfaction with Moscow’s current level of support.

Also read: UN sounds alarm as US bombs Iran nuclear sites in dramatic turn of conflict

According to a Reuters report on Monday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Moscow on Sunday to deliver a letter from Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The letter is believed to contain an explicit request for Russia to take a more assertive stance in defence of Iran.

A senior source quoted by Reuters said Tehran has grown increasingly frustrated by what it sees as Moscow’s lukewarm response to the crisis.

“Tehran has not been impressed with the level of support from Moscow and wants Russia to take stronger measures,” the source noted.

Although the specifics of the requested support were not disclosed, the rare high-level diplomatic appeal highlights Iran’s concern over its vulnerability in the face of coordinated Western military pressure.

Tehran has not been impressed with the level of support from Moscow and wants Russia to take stronger measures.

The visit comes as tensions in the Middle East reach a boiling point following US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan.

The attacks have prompted widespread international concern over the possibility of a broader regional conflict.

Russia, traditionally an ally of Iran and a critical player in Middle Eastern geopolitics, has so far maintained a cautious tone, calling for de-escalation while refraining from any direct confrontation with the United States or Israel.

Araghchi’s meeting with Russian officials is expected to explore options for greater bilateral coordination, particularly in the realms of military strategy, intelligence sharing, and regional deterrence.

Analysts say Iran’s appeal to Russia underscores the Islamic Republic’s need for powerful allies as it braces for potential escalation.