AP Sources: Russia Provided Intel to Iran to Aid Strikes Against US Forces
According to two officials familiar with U.S. intelligence, Russia has provided Iran with information that could assist Tehran in striking American warships, aircraft, and other assets in the region. While there's no evidence Russia is directing Iran's actions, this marks the first indication of Moscow's direct intelligence support to Iran amid the ongoing conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
According to multiple U.S. intelligence officials speaking anonymously to the Associated Press, Russia has provided Iran with intelligence that could help Tehran strike American warships, aircraft, and military assets in the Middle East. This marks the first indication of Moscow's direct involvement in the ongoing conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran that began approximately a week ago. The intelligence sharing includes targeting data on U.S. naval vessels, aircraft, and assets in the Persian Gulf region, though there is no evidence showing Russia is directing Iran's actions.
The intelligence was reportedly provided to help Iran identify potential targets linked to American forces deployed across the Middle East, including real-time satellite intelligence on positions. This cooperation builds on prior Iran-Russia ties, including Tehran's drone supplies to Moscow for its war in Ukraine. The Biden administration previously declassified evidence of Iran supplying Russia with attack drones and short-range ballistic missiles.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt downplayed the reports, stating they "clearly [are] not impacting military operations in Iran because we are thoroughly dismantling them" and deferred comments on Trump-Putin talks or repercussions to the president. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the U.S. is "monitoring everything" and addressing "any inappropriate actions... decisively," assuring the public of the commander's awareness.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied military aid requests from Iran and emphasized ongoing dialogue. The intelligence sharing occurs amid U.S. and Israeli bombardments of Iran, Iran's counterstrikes on U.S. interests and allies, and attacks on neighboring countries hosting U.S. forces. President Trump has demanded Iran's "unconditional surrender" and ruled out talks, stating the goal is to prevent Iran from ever possessing nuclear weapons.
This development represents a significant escalation in the regional conflict, with Russia now apparently providing direct intelligence support to Iran against U.S. military assets. While the White House downplays the impact, the intelligence sharing marks a new dimension in the complex geopolitical relationships between these nations, with potential implications for regional stability and U.S. military operations in the Middle East.
Join the discussion
What do you think? Drop your thoughts below.