Iran has reportedly sent ballistic missiles to Russia without the necessary mobile launchers, leaving Moscow unable to deploy them immediately.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently accused Tehran of supplying Russia with Fath-360 missiles, which were expected to be used in Ukraine within weeks. However, Iran did not provide the launchers required to fire the missiles, and sources suggest that Tehran may not deliver them soon.
It remains unclear why Iran withheld the launchers. Some experts, including a European intelligence official, speculated that this might be a diplomatic move ahead of the United Nations General Assembly, where Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to meet with European leaders to discuss key issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme.
David Albright, head of the Institute for Science and International Security, suggested that Iran could be avoiding backlash during these talks, as missile strikes on Ukraine could lead to international condemnation.
Iran has handed over 200 ballistic missiles to russia, – The Times.
This involves the delivery of Fath-300 missiles, which can reach targets up to 70 miles (112 km) away.
These missiles could pave the way for the delivery of even longer-range versions of the weapon, with ranges… pic.twitter.com/7fyvkG9rPd
— Jürgen Nauditt 🇩🇪🇺🇦 (@jurgen_nauditt) September 7, 2024
Missile expert Fabian Hinz proposed another explanation: Russia might plan to adapt its own vehicles to launch the missiles, as they are better suited to Ukraine’s terrain than Iran’s typical converted Mercedes trucks.
Tehran has denied supplying Russia with missiles or drones, despite accusations from Kyiv and Western nations that Russia has used Iranian drones to attack Ukraine’s infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is visiting the U.S. to discuss his ‘Victory Plan’ with President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and former President Donald Trump.
The plan seeks to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin towards peace and urges NATO membership for Ukraine, alongside advanced weaponry and a pathway to joining the European Union. Zelensky believes this plan could lead to more productive diplomatic engagements with Russia in the future.
What Other Media Are Saying
- AP News reported that Iran’s missile transfer to Russia, lacking launchers, illustrates a troubling partnership. This collaboration threatens European security and highlights Iran’s growing influence in global conflicts, exacerbating civilian casualties in Ukraine. (Read more)
- Reuters reported that the decision to send missiles without launchers suggests Iran’s strategic caution. This move complicates Russia’s military logistics while showcasing the deepening ties between Tehran and Moscow amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. (Read more)
- RFE/RL views the Kremlin’s acknowledgement of Iranian missile supplies without launchers as indicative of Russia’s military capabilities. This situation could escalate tensions in Ukraine and beyond, impacting global security dynamics. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Did Iran send missiles to Russia?
Iran reportedly sent Fath-360 ballistic missiles to Russia but without the mobile launchers needed to deploy them.
Why didn’t Iran provide launchers with the missiles?
It’s unclear, but experts suggest it could be a diplomatic move ahead of UN talks or that Russia plans to modify its own vehicles for missile deployment.
Is Iran arming Russia in the Ukraine conflict?
Tehran denies supplying Russia with missiles or drones, despite accusations from Kyiv and Western leaders that Moscow is using Iranian drones to attack Ukraine.
What is President Zelensky’s ‘Victory Plan’?
Zelensky’s plan aims to pressure Russian President Putin into peace talks while pushing for Ukraine’s NATO membership and support for its economic and security needs.
What will be discussed at the UN General Assembly regarding Iran?
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is expected to meet with European leaders to discuss Iran’s nuclear programme, regional tensions, and other diplomatic issues.
