US-Israeli Conflict Could Potentially Benefit Russias Interests in Iran

Russia Sees US-Israeli Attacks on Iran as Potential Threat

A recent escalation in tensions between the US and Israel has caused concern in Moscow, with some Russian commentators warning that Russia could be targeted by similar attacks. The US and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets have been seen as a vindication of Russia’s geopolitical strategy, including its aggression against Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is believed to see the US war on Iran as a reflection of his own threat perceptions, which were influenced by events in Libya in 2011. A NATO-led military intervention in Libya led to the ouster of Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, and Putin has long viewed the US-led West as a rogue and irrational actor.

The Kremlin’s actions in Ukraine have been shaped by its Soviet-era doctrine of taking the war to the enemy’s territory. The conflict in Ukraine began in 2014, with Russia claiming it was a preventive measure against military intervention similar to that experienced by Iraq, Libya, and Syria.

Russia has maintained close ties with Iran, despite their historically difficult relations. Iran has provided crucial support to Russia’s efforts in Ukraine, and the two countries have become unlikely allies. The Russian government has successfully managed to shield the majority of its population from the impact of the war, presenting it as inevitable.

The US-Israeli attacks on Iran have raised concerns among some Russian commentators that Putin may see a similar threat to himself and his regime. However, details of these concerns remain unclear.

Source: Al Jazeera