Attempts to destabilize Iran pose a serious threat to Russian interests, and Moscow should actively oppose them through political and diplomatic channels, said Boris Dolgov, senior researcher at the Center for Arab and Islamic Studies, in an interview with TASS.
Dolgov pointed to recent statements from US and Israeli leaders targeting Iran, including President Donald Trump’s suggestion that Washington might intervene — even militarily — on behalf of Iranian protesters. “These developments create a dangerous situation across the region that directly threatens Russia’s interests, including our economic ones,” he said.
Iran serves as a key geographic and political hub, hosting vital communication routes like the International North-South Transport Corridor. “Russia’s economic, political, and military-technical interests are deeply tied to our relationship with Iran,” Dolgov noted. “Continued destabilization efforts — and especially external interference — threaten those ties, so Russia must respond with targeted diplomatic measures.”
The analyst highlighted the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between Moscow and Tehran as a cornerstone of their dynamic relationship. “This important document provides for political and diplomatic support, which Russia should leverage,” he said.
Iran Protests Context
The comments come amid unrest that began on December 29, 2025, when Tehran traders protested the dramatic fall of the Iranian rial. Students joined by December 30, with disorders spreading across major cities. Violence peaked on the evening of January 8, when rioters killed at least seven civilians — including a child — and several law enforcement officers, including a prosecutor in Esfarayen. Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani reported that arsonists torched 25 mosques, damaged 26 banks, three medical centers, ten government buildings, 48 fire trucks, 42 buses, ambulances, and 24 private homes. Iranian authorities labeled the rioters terrorists and blamed Israel and the US for orchestrating the violence.
Trump has made several statements on Iran, including on January 12 when he said Washington was seriously considering a response — potentially involving force. The previous day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel hoped to establish partner relations with Iran if the Tehran regime changed.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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Based on materials from TASS