US downplays reports Russia gave Iran intel to help Tehran strike US assets | Conflict News
U.S. Monitors Russian-Iranian Collaboration Amid Middle East Conflict
Washington — The Pentagon confirmed on Friday that U.S. forces are actively monitoring Russian operations with Iran during the escalating conflict in the Middle East, as reported by The Washington Post. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated in a CBS 60 Minutes interview that the U.S. is “tracking everything” related to potential Russian aid to Iran concerning U.S. targets.
According to anonymous sources, since the conflict erupted on February 28, Russia has conveyed strategic information about U.S. military assets to Iran, including the locations of warships and aircraft.
One source highlighted that this collaboration appears to be a “comprehensive effort.” However, officials have indicated that U.S. intelligence has not found evidence that Russia is directing Iran on how to utilize the information shared. As the U.S. and Israel conduct military operations against Iran, Iranian forces have responded with attacks on U.S. assets and allies in the Gulf region.
Hegseth reassured the public, stating that the U.S. government is well-informed about communications among foreign powers, asserting, “Anything that shouldn’t be happening, whether it’s in public or back-channel, is being confronted strongly.” He emphasized that while U.S. forces are taking the necessary measures, the greatest risk lies with Iranian forces.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also addressed the situation, claiming that the reported intelligence sharing does not affect military operations, asserting, “We are completely decimating them.” However, when asked if President Donald Trump had discussed Russia’s intelligence-sharing with President Vladimir Putin, Leavitt refrained from confirming specific conversations and deferred to the president for any potential consequences.
Trump responded to questions about the intelligence report during a media session on student-athlete compensation. He expressed frustration with the inquiry, deeming it inappropriate given the ongoing situation.
The intelligence suggests that Russia’s involvement represents a significant shift, as Moscow seeks to fortify its partnership with Tehran, especially in light of its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that there has been no request from Iran for military assistance. He reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to dialogue with Iranian leadership, but he did not comment on any military or intelligence support since the resurgence of conflict.
The long-standing relationship between Russia and Iran has been characterized by mutual interests, particularly amidst Iran’s international isolation due to its nuclear ambitions and support for various groups throughout the Middle East.
