Iran's security chief Mohsen Rezaei traveled to Moscow on Thursday to hold discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting took place as diplomatic initiatives accelerate to conclude the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. According to reports from the Iranian state broadcaster Press TV, Rezaei also handed a letter to the Russian leader on behalf of Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
Following the talks, Rezaei stated that the primary focus was on establishing security arrangements for the region. He emphasized that the conversation covered the post-war period and Russia's continued backing for ending what he described as American aggression against Iran. The two leaders also explored opportunities to deepen energy ties, specifically regarding the construction of gas pipelines from Russia to Iran.
Rezaei, who serves as the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, noted that Khamenei had urged the delivery of the message to Putin as swiftly as possible. Although the trip was planned nearly a month prior, it had been delayed due to frequent discussions about the evolving military situation in the region. Rezaei did not disclose the specific contents of the letter during his public remarks.
The visit occurred against a backdrop of intensified diplomatic activity led by Qatar. There are growing concerns that the United States may resume attacks following its recent midterm elections. In those elections held on Tuesday, President Donald Trump's Republican Party lost control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This shift was attributed to widespread public anger over rising prices, a trend many observers link directly to the war with Iran.
Current peace efforts are concentrated on several key issues, including the future status of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the US blockade of Iranian ports, the application of sanctions, and the resumption of nuclear negotiations. Rezaei declared that Tehran would not engage in talks with Washington regarding the end of the war or the reopening of the strait until the United States fulfills seven specific demands. He stated that until these conditions are met, Iran will maintain its current stance.
During the Kremlin meeting, Putin reiterated that Russia is prepared to provide support to help end the conflict. In a previous statement last month, the Russian president told Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian that Russia was ready to do everything possible to achieve this goal. Rezaei also briefed Putin on a recent meeting in Tehran in late October that included representatives from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan. Putin expressed a positive reception to this regional gathering.
Rezaei highlighted the shared belief between Russia and China that the region requires internal security arrangements. He argued that foreign nations should avoid interfering in the area's stability. The meeting was held in the Senate Palace, as reported by Russia's TASS news agency. The Kremlin did not immediately release its own official account of the discussions.
In parallel developments, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi engaged in phone calls with his counterparts from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Turkiye, and Jordan. These conversations centered on regional developments and the ongoing diplomatic push for peace. The two nations, both subject to significant Western sanctions, have strengthened their diplomatic and military relationships in recent years.
In January 2025, Russia and Iran signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty that covers trade, military cooperation, science, culture, and education. The agreement took effect in October of that year. Unlike the pact between Russia and North Korea, this treaty does not include a mutual defense clause. Additionally, Iranian army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia announced on Saturday that Iran has purchased Russian Su-35 fighter jets. He stated that the aircraft are expected to arrive after the war ends, noting that pilot training and preparations were already complete.
