Tehran, May 21, 2025 – Russia-Iran Alliances, In a significant geopolitical development, Iran’s Parliament has formally approved a comprehensive 20-year strategic partnership with Russia, marking a deepening of bilateral relations between the two nations. The move underscores growing cooperation in defense and economic sectors amid increasing pressure from the West.
Bilateral Agreement Signed and Approved
The strategic pact was originally signed on January 17 by Russian President Vladimir Putin and newly elected Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Russia’s legislative body ratified the agreement in April, and Iran’s parliamentary approval on Wednesday finalized the accord.
While the agreement does not entail a mutual defense obligation, it commits both nations to collaborate in addressing common military threats. It also calls for expanded military-technical cooperation and joint military exercises, further reinforcing the Russia-Iran alliances in defense strategy.
Defense Cooperation Amid Regional Tensions
Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, Moscow and Tehran have significantly strengthened their military ties. Western nations have accused Iran of supplying missiles and drones used by Russia in Ukraine—a claim that Tehran continues to deny.
The new pact provides a formal framework for enhancing defense collaboration, though it avoids a full defense treaty clause. Instead, it emphasizes intelligence sharing, military training, and strategic planning.
Expanding Economic Ties and Financial Integration
Beyond defense, the agreement also outlines robust economic cooperation. It focuses on enhancing direct interbank links and promoting national financial systems, enabling both countries to circumvent Western-controlled financial networks.
Furthermore, a newly implemented free trade agreement between Iran and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU)—which is led by Russia—came into effect last week. The deal significantly reduces tariffs and aims to boost bilateral trade, offering vital economic relief to both heavily sanctioned economies.
This 20-year pact between Tehran and Moscow symbolizes a long-term strategic shift, positioning the Russia-Iran alliances as a counterbalance to Western influence in the region.
