Global tensions surge as Russia openly backs Iran and France deploys naval forces near the Strait of Hormuz, signaling the possibility of a wider geopolitical confrontation in the Middle East.
The growing military confrontation surrounding Iran is drawing powerful nations deeper into the crisis, raising fears of a broader global conflict. Russia has now publicly clarified its position, indicating clear political support for Iran as tensions escalate between Tehran, the United States, and Israel.
Russian Ambassador to the United Kingdom Andrei Kelin stated in an interview with Sky News that Moscow is not neutral in the unfolding situation. He emphasized that Russia considers the actions taken against Iran to be unjustified and believes the Western narrative unfairly blames Tehran for the escalating crisis.
According to the ambassador, the United States and Israel initiated attacks against Iran, while Iran is responding to those actions in defense of its sovereignty. Kelin noted that although Iran has not formally requested military assistance from Russia, Moscow would carefully consider providing support if such a request were made.
The ambassador also highlighted the long history of diplomatic and strategic relations between Russia and Iran. Despite expressing support for Tehran, he stressed that Russia believes the best solution is an immediate halt to military escalation and the start of diplomatic negotiations to restore stability in the Middle East.
At the same time, European powers are also increasing their military presence in the region. French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France and its allies are preparing a defensive maritime operation aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical trade routes.
Macron made the announcement during an official visit to Cyprus after discussions with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. He warned that any attack on Cyprus would be considered an attack on Europe as a whole.
The planned operation focuses on protecting container ships and oil tankers that travel through the strategic waterway, through which nearly one fifth of global crude oil supplies pass. Maritime traffic in the strait has been severely disrupted since the conflict escalated in late February.
France has already deployed the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle along with additional warships and air defense units to the region following recent drone attacks linked to Iranian forces. The European Union is also preparing to strengthen its maritime security mission known as Operation Aspides in the Red Sea.
