Iran prepares for war, requests radars and air defense systems from Russia - WSJ

Two Iranian officials familiar with military planning have confirmed that Tehran has approached Russia for modern radars and air defense systems.

The report noted that on August 5, former Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu arrived in Iran, where he met with the country's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, and Brigadier General Mohammad Bagheri, the Iranian military chief responsible for planning strikes against Israel.

During the meeting, Pezeshkian expressed Iran's determination to deepen its relationship with Russia as a strategic partner.

"Russia is among the countries that have stood by the Iranian nation during difficult times," the new president said.

Pezeshkian also condemned what he described as the criminal actions of Israel in Gaza and the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week, calling them blatant violations of international laws and norms.

The president said that shared positions between Iran and Russia in promoting a multipolar world will certainly lead to greater global security and peace.

“We are ready for full cooperation with Iran on regional issues,” affirmed Shoigu in response.

Risk of a major war in the Middle East

Last week, Israeli forces eliminated senior Hamas official Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah leader Fouad Shukr. In response, Iran has declared its readiness to launch a massive strike against Israel.

The Israeli military is preparing for a multi-day assault involving missiles and drones from Iran, Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, and Houthi rebels in Yemen.

According to media reports, Iran is likely to attack Israel on August 12 and 13.

Recently, Washington urged Iran to temper its retaliation for the killing of the Hamas leader, but Tehran rejected the offer.

For more on the situation in the Middle East, read the article by RBC-Ukraine.