This visit took place at a time when tensions between Moscow and Washington have reached a peak and Iran's nuclear file is at a sensitive point. Consultations between Tehran and Moscow on regional developments, the Ukraine war, and Russia-US talks indicate the two countries' attempts to coordinate strategically in the face of Western pressures. At the same time, the question arises as to whether improved Russia-US relations could impact Moscow-Tehran relations.
Nournews: How do you evaluate Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's recent visit to Tehran in the current circumstances?
Najah Mohammad Ali: This visit demonstrates the two countries' efforts to continue coordination on regional and international issues. Especially in light of recent developments in Russia-US relations, this visit and the meetings held are considered very important. The main axes of negotiations between the two sides included important issues such as Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, indicating Tehran and Moscow's determination to strengthen regional cooperation. The timing of this visit is crucial, as it took place immediately after a phone call between Trump and Putin and also the negotiations between the Russian and American foreign ministers in Riyadh. This shows that Russia is trying to coordinate more with Iran as it seeks to reduce tensions in its relations with Washington.
The upcoming meeting between the US and Russian presidents could provide a clearer picture of Russia's approach to engaging with the US and its regional partners regarding the complex issues in West Asia.
Nournews: Reports of the meeting between Iranian and Russian officials mentioned consultations on Iran's nuclear file, is there a possibility of Russia reactivating its role in this matter?
Najah Mohammad Ali: Yes, Lavrov's and Abbas Araghchi's statements indicate a solid agreement between Iran and Russia on key issues such as security and stability in Syria, the Palestinian crisis, and Iran's nuclear file.
Lavrov emphasized that these issues should be resolved through diplomatic channels, which shows Moscow's attempt to prevent further tensions and pressures on Iran, especially as Russia and the US are negotiating on strategic regional and international issues. On the other hand, Araghchi emphasized Iran's firm position in supporting the Lebanese government and confronting Israeli occupation in the south of the country.
He also stressed the continuation of strong support for the resistance axis in the region, demonstrating Tehran's commitment to Palestinians' rights and rejection of Tel Aviv's occupation policies.
Nournews: Given these developments, how do you assess the future of Iran-Russia cooperation on regional issues?
Najah Mohammad Ali: One of the most important axes emphasized by both sides is the preservation of Syria's territorial integrity and countering separatism, which is in contrast to the approach of the United States and Israel. Lavrov and Araghchi's emphasis on preserving Syria's territorial integrity is crucial, especially when Israel has occupied part of its territory and the US has a military base and proxy forces in the country. Russia, while negotiating with the US, intends to strengthen its strategic alliance with Iran and China against future Western pressures. Iran also has clear and firm positions on regional and international issues, especially the nuclear file, and is not willing to negotiate under pressure. Therefore, the future of Tehran-Moscow relations on regional issues should be evaluated based on the common ground of positions and interests of the two countries, which are largely aligned.
Nournews: Some analysts believe that a possible agreement between Russia and the US on Ukraine could impact Moscow's relations with Tehran. What is your opinion?
Najah Mohammad Ali: Although an agreement between Russia and the US on Ukraine could influence Moscow's policies towards Iran, Russia will likely consider a balance between its interests in Europe and the region. Russia's cooperation with Iran in West Asia is both a strategic choice and necessity. Therefore, improved Russia-West relations should not be considered a factor for Russia's detachment from Iran. Especially due to Iran's independent positions as a powerful and influential player in West Asia, Russia, in the framework of balancing its relations with the US and Iran, a powerful neighbor to its south, will remain committed to its obligations towards Iran.
Nournews: Will Iran change its policies in response to these developments?
Najah Mohammad Ali: Iran's position, under the leadership of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, has always been based on firm principles and frameworks. Iran rejects negotiations under pressure and accepts any agreement based on mutual respect and justice. Even if Russia-US relations change, it is unlikely to significantly impact Tehran's policies. Iran is ready to engage in dialogue based on its strategic interests but is not willing to concede under pressure. Tehran's policy has always been to maintain independence in international decision-making, and I believe this approach will continue in the future.
Nournews: Will Iran show flexibility in its foreign policy?
Najah Mohammad Ali: Iran has always pursued a balanced and flexible policy, but this flexibility does not mean compromising fundamental principles. Iran's decisions are made at various levels of governance, including the Leader, the President, and the Supreme National Security Council, which results in a strategy that balances dignity, wisdom, and expediency. This decision-making structure enables a quick response to international developments and helps Iran resist external pressures.
Nournews: Given the existing challenges, how will Iran-Russia cooperation unfold in the future?
Najah Mohammad Ali: Although the outlook suggests improved Russia-US relations, in light of regional developments and the new order taking shape, cooperation between Iran and Russia will increase within the framework of securing common interests.
A very important issue that should not be overlooked is the complexities governing the regional situation, which can change many assessments. The future of Syria is currently very uncertain, Lebanon's situation is still unstable, the Muslim Brotherhood and anti-Brotherhood currents are weighing and changing equations in their favor, Iran's nuclear file and Tehran's relations with the West are internationally influential issues that remain ambiguous, Gaza's future is still unclear, and Israel's internal situation and Netanyahu's political future are also uncertain. All these factors, along with other minor and major issues, can pave the way for completely unexpected developments.
I still believe that some regional confrontations are possible, and I think the region is heading towards increasing tensions, but there is still a chance for political solutions, provided that the parties involved and key players approach these challenges realistically.
NOURNEWS