WASHINGTON, D.C. — Russia has expanded its strategic partnership with Tehran by providing intelligence on the locations and movements of American military assets to aid Iran’s ongoing war operations, according to multiple sources familiar with US intelligence reporting.
Sources indicate that Moscow is sharing detailed imagery derived from its sophisticated constellation of overhead satellites. This intelligence includes data regarding the positioning of US troops, naval ships, and aircraft in the region.
“This shows Russia still likes Iran very much,” one source briefed on the intelligence told CNN, highlighting the deepening military coordination between the two nations.
The revelation marks a significant escalation in Moscow’s involvement in the conflict. While it remains unclear if Russia is receiving anything in return for this assistance or if any specific Iranian attacks can be directly linked to this intelligence, recent strikes have raised concerns. An Iranian drone struck a makeshift facility housing US troops in Kuwait on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of six US service members.
The Kremlin and the Russian embassy in Washington have been asked for comment.
China’s Potential Involvement
Simultaneously, US intelligence suggests that China may be preparing to provide Iran with financial assistance, spare parts, and missile components. However, analysts suggest Beijing is treading carefully due to its reliance on Iranian energy supplies.
“China is more cautious in its support. It wants the war to end because it endangers their energy supply,” a source familiar with the matter said. Reports indicate Beijing has been pressuring Tehran to allow safe passage for vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Chinese embassy in Washington has been contacted for comment regarding the allegations of potential military assistance.
US Military Posture
Despite these intelligence findings, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth downplayed the immediate threat posed by Russia and China’s involvement, telling reporters on Wednesday that they are “not really a factor” in the ongoing war with Iran.
The comments come as the US maintains a significant military footprint in the region. According to CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper, the US operation against Iran currently involves more than 50,000 troops, over 200 fighter jets, and two aircraft carriers.
Pentagon officials state that the primary military objective is to eliminate Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities, which Secretary Hegseth described as a “shield” Tehran uses to advance its nuclear program.
The intelligence regarding Russian and Chinese support surfaces amid a long history of cooperation between Moscow and Tehran, including Iran’s provision of Shahed drones and ballistic missiles to Russia for use in Ukraine.
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