Russia, Iran 'need each other desperately, expert says, as US targets Tehran

Key Points:

• Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed full solidarity with Iran during a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit, highlighting the growing strategic relationship between the two nations.
• Retired U.S. Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove emphasized that Iran and Russia "need each other desperately," with Russia relying on Iran for missile production amid its conflict in Ukraine, while Iran depends on Russian intelligence to target American interests in the Middle East.
• Experts note that Russia is transferring military technology to Iran, bolstering the Iranian regime, while Iran serves as a strategic partner for Russia to counter U.S. influence, especially at the United Nations Security Council.
• The ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran has evolved into a test of wills, with Iran focusing on survival and continued threats to the Strait of Hormuz to disrupt global maritime trade, while the U.S. maintains air and sea dominance without committing ground forces.
• Analysts warn that diplomatic resolution with Iran remains unlikely as long as the current regime holds power, and they highlight Putin's vision of spheres of influence, with Russia supporting Iran as part of its strategy to challenge Western dominance.