Why it matters:
The agreement cements Tehran and Moscow’s growing alignment at a time of heightened tensions. As sanctions and geopolitical tensions in the region drive both countries to seek new partnerships, this treaty marks a major pivot toward deeper bilateral cooperation.
The big picture:
Russia and Iran have steadily deepened ties over the past decade, especially following the Russian war with Ukraine and Iran’s tensions with Western powers over its nuclear program and imposed sanctions. This pact offers both countries a long-term framework to work around global restrictions while reinforcing their regional influence.
Key points:
- The treaty was signed during President Pezeshkian’s visit to Moscow in January and Moscow presented it as a milestone in its pivot toward non-Western alliances.
- Putin submitted the treaty to Russia’s State Duma in March, which ratified it on April 8.
- The Federation Council’s approval this week officially brings the agreement into force.
- It establishes Russia and Iran as strategic partners for the next 20 years.
- Areas of cooperation include defense, counterterrorism, energy, finance, transport, agriculture, science, and culture.
- The treaty provides a legal framework for expanding bilateral ties.
- The Federation Council's ratification on April 16, 2025, finalizes the treaty’s implementation.
Go deeper:
The pact is part of a broader trend of Moscow and Tehran strengthening ties amid shared international pressure. Both countries have leaned into alternative alliances and multipolar diplomacy, including deeper coordination within blocs like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS.
Hossein Vaez
