Russia’s close relationships with both Israel and Iran could position it as a key mediator in the conflict.

 Moscow, June 15 – Russia is trying to walk a fine line in the Middle East, as tensions between Israel and Iran escalate. For years, Russia has kept good relations with both countries — supporting Iran economically and militarily while maintaining friendly ties with Israel. But after Israel launched deadly airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites this weekend — and Iran responded with drone and missile attacks — Russia finds itself in a tough spot.

Russia Tries to Keep the Peace

President Vladimir Putin has been speaking with both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, offering to help calm things down. He condemned Israel’s strikes during his call with the Iranian leader and expressed Russia’s willingness to help resolve issues related to Iran’s nuclear program.

Russia's Foreign Ministry also strongly criticized the Israeli attacks, calling them “completely unacceptable” and warning that Israel would bear responsibility for any fallout. Despite this tough language, Russia hasn't promised Iran anything beyond political support.

During his conversation with Netanyahu, Putin pushed for a return to diplomacy and negotiations. He also suggested Russia could mediate between the two sides to prevent a full-blown war.

Russia’s Past and Present Ties with Iran

Historically, relations between Russia and Iran were complicated — especially during the Cold War. But things changed after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Russia became a major trading partner for Iran and even helped build its first nuclear power plant.

Russia supported Iran diplomatically during the 2015 nuclear deal negotiations and worked closely with Tehran in the Syrian civil war to back President Bashar al-Assad. In recent years, especially after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, ties with Iran have deepened — including deals for Iran to provide Russia with drones and the signing of a “comprehensive strategic partnership” this year.

Russia-Israel Relationship Remains Strong

Despite its friendship with Iran, Russia also has close ties with Israel. Since the 1990s, the two countries have cooperated on many fronts, including economic and cultural relations. Putin and Netanyahu have maintained a good personal relationship over the years.

Even after Russian weapons were sent to Iran, Moscow has been careful — for example, delaying the delivery of advanced fighter jets Iran wants, likely to avoid upsetting Israel. At the same time, Israel has also avoided sending weapons to Ukraine, which Moscow likely appreciates.

This balancing act has made some Iranian officials uneasy, suspecting Russia may not fully support Iran in a conflict with Israel.

What’s in It for Russia?

Some experts believe Russia could benefit from the rising tension. For one, it might distract the world from the war in Ukraine, taking attention and support away from Kyiv. Also, global oil prices could spike due to the conflict, which would help Russia’s economy and boost its war chest.

There’s even talk of Russia playing a central role in future Iran nuclear negotiations. One Russian official suggested Russia could take Iran’s enriched uranium and convert it into fuel for peaceful purposes — if diplomacy resumes.

Bottom Line

Russia is trying to act as a mediator between Iran and Israel while keeping its strategic interests with both. Although it condemned Israel’s strikes, Moscow is unlikely to go beyond political statements. At the same time, the crisis could give Russia a diplomatic and economic advantage, especially if it shifts the world’s focus away from Ukraine.