Russia warned on Thursday against any attack on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure as tensions grow with the United States over its nuclear program and after President Donald Trump threatened to bomb Iran if it doesn’t reach a deal.
Newsweek has reached out to the U.S. State Department for comment.
Why It Matters
Russia has grown closer to Iran and in January the two countries signed a comprehensive strategic partnership. That risks any conflict over Iran’s nuclear program taking on a global dimension.
Iran has rejected direct negotiations under pressure after Trump reinstated his “maximum pressure” campaign, reimposing strict sanctions aimed at weakening Iran’s economy and halting its nuclear advancements. Trump has also threatened to bomb Iran if there is no deal.
While Iran has indicated that indirect talks could be possible, rising tensions between Iran and the U.S. have reignited fears of a potential war.
What To Know
“The use of military force by Iran’s adversaries in the context of political resolution is illegal and unacceptable,” Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova told a news conference, according to a ministry translation. “External threats to bomb Iran’s nuclear energy infrastructure would inevitably lead to far-reaching and irreversible consequences.”
Zacharova’s comments highlight Russia’s opposition to U.S. threats against Iran, with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov earlier this week condemning what he described as “inappropriate” methods.
Mohammad Mehdi Dara, Iranian Army/AP
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned that if the U.S. or any other nation acts against Iran, they will “receive a severe blow.“
Earlier this month, President Trump said he had sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader, urging Tehran to negotiate over its nuclear program and warning of potential military action if it refused. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the letter “more of a threat” but acknowledged it also presented opportunities.
What People Are Saying
Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova: “The use of military force by Iran’s adversaries in the context of political resolution is illegal and unacceptable… External threats to bomb Iran’s nuclear energy infrastructure would inevitably lead to far-reaching and irreversible consequences.”
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent Remarks at FinCEN on Wednesday: “Our objective is to thwart Iran’s ability to lead and sponsor terrorism, deny Iran’s attempts to grow its nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles programs, and punish Iran for its heinous human rights abuses.”
What Happens Next
The Russian comments come as the United States and Iran are intensifying both rhetoric and military preparations, signaling the risk that a direct confrontation could evolve into a broader conflict.