Tehran: On May 21, 2025, Iran's parliament ratified a 20-year strategic partnership with Russia, marking a significant deepening of ties between the two nations. Initially signed by Presidents Vladimir Putin and Masoud Pezeshkian in January, the agreement had previously received approval from Russia's legislative bodies in April.

While the pact stops short of a mutual defense clause, it outlines collaboration against shared military threats, development of military-technical cooperation, and joint exercises. This move underscores the growing alliance between Moscow and Tehran, especially in the wake of the Ukraine conflict, amid Western allegations that Iran has supplied arms to Russia—claims Iran denies.

Economically, the agreement promotes stronger interbank ties and the use of national financial products. Additionally, a free trade deal with the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union came into effect recently, reducing tariffs and aiming to boost trade between the two heavily sanctioned economies.

This strategic partnership reflects a concerted effort by both nations to counterbalance Western influence and sanctions, signaling a new chapter in their bilateral relations.