Israel’s New Threat: Russia Sending Drones to Arm Iran

Russia has begun delivering drones to Iran this month, with shipments expected to be completed by the end of March, according to a report yesterday by the Financial Times citing Western intelligence assessments. The deliveries mark the first reported transfer of weapons from Moscow to Tehran since the war began.

The move signals a shift in Russia’s role from indirect backing to direct military support, after already providing intelligence assistance and satellite imagery to Iran. Officials assess the drone shipments as part of a broader effort to strengthen Tehran’s military capabilities and stabilize its position as the conflict continues.

Public reporting has not specified the type or quantity of drones being transferred. However, the Financial Times described the deliveries as a phased shipment now underway, suggesting an organized supply effort rather than a one-time transfer. Alongside the drones, Russia has also sent medical supplies to Iran, including shipments routed through Azerbaijan in recent weeks.

A Kremlin spokesperson responded to the report by dismissing its claims while acknowledging ongoing ties with Tehran. “There are a lot of fakes going around right now. One thing is true — we are continuing our dialogue with the Iranian leadership,” spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, according to the Financial Times.

The reported weapons transfer follows earlier indications of expanding cooperation between the two countries. A March 17 report cited by Reuters said Russia had already provided Iran with satellite imagery and assistance related to drone technology. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later said Kyiv has “irrefutable” evidence that Moscow is continuing to supply intelligence to Tehran, reinforcing assessments that the relationship has deepened during the war.

Israel has already taken steps that appear aimed at disrupting this growing supply network. Last week, Israeli forces reportedly struck the port of Bandar-e Anzali on the Caspian Sea, which has been described in multiple reports as a key transit point for goods and equipment moving between Russia and Iran. The route has been used to transport a range of materials, including weapons and drone-related components.

Following the strike, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the attack had affected Russian economic interests, an unusual acknowledgment that underscored Moscow’s stake in activity at the site, even as it stopped short of confirming any military transfers.

With shipments ongoing and expected to conclude by the end of the month, the development suggests the war is drawing in more direct involvement from external powers. Western officials now assess that Russia’s role is expanding beyond coordination and into active resupply, potentially shaping the next phase of the conflict.