Russia has reportedly provided Iran with intelligence on United States military positions, according to people familiar with US intelligence reports, marking the first indication that Moscow may be directly involved in the ongoing conflict, as per reports made by The Washington Post.
The intelligence reportedly included satellite imagery detailing the locations and movements of American troops, naval vessels and aircraft, according to sources cited in US intelligence briefings. One person familiar with the matter said much of the information came from Russia’s network of overhead surveillance satellites.
However, it remains unclear what Russia may be receiving in return for the assistance.
It is also not known whether any specific Iranian strike can be directly linked to Russian targeting data, as per the report.
Several recent Iranian drone attacks have reportedly targeted locations where US forces were stationed. On Sunday, an Iranian drone struck a temporary facility housing US troops in Kuwait, killing six American service members, according to CNN.
Reports citing a source briefed on the intelligence assessment said the development suggests Moscow continues to maintain close ties with Tehran.
US intelligence agencies are also monitoring signs that China could provide limited support to Iran, including financial assistance, spare parts and missile components, according to three people familiar with the matter. So far, Beijing has largely stayed out of the conflict.
China, which depends heavily on Iranian oil supplies, has reportedly urged Tehran to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global route for energy shipments.
One person familiar with the intelligence assessments said China appeared more cautious in its approach, noting that prolonged conflict could threaten its energy supply.
The CIA declined to comment on the intelligence findings. CNN has also sought a response from the Chinese embassy in Washington regarding the possibility of Beijing assisting Iran.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, however, played down the role of Russia and China in the conflict. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, he said the two countries were “not really a factor” in the war involving Iran.
Russia and Iran have strengthened their military cooperation in recent years. Iran has supplied Russia with Shahed drones and short-range ballistic missiles used in attacks during the war in Ukraine. Tehran has also helped establish a large drone production facility in Russia to manufacture Iranian-designed drones.
According to US Central Command commander Admiral Brad Cooper, the current US military operation involving Iran includes more than 50,000 troops, over 200 fighter jets and two aircraft carriers.
Pentagon officials say the US military’s immediate objective is to eliminate Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities. Defence Secretary Hegseth said this week that Iran has been using those missiles as a “shield” while advancing its nuclear programme.
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