Iran’s security chief meets Putin, delivers message from Khamenei
Iran's security chief Mohsen Rezaei met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, delivering a letter from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei as diplomatic efforts intensify to end the US and Israel's war on Iran.
During the meeting on Thursday, Rezaei, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, discussed regional security arrangements with Putin and emphasized Russia's support for ending what he called the US's 'aggression' against Iran. The visit had been planned nearly a month earlier but was postponed due to 'daily discussions about the military situation in the region'.
Regional Security Talks
Rezaei stated that 'important regional issues were discussed with Putin and significant conversations took place regarding the post-war period and regional security arrangements.' The talks also included plans to deepen energy cooperation, particularly regarding the construction of gas pipelines from Russia to Iran to address Iran's gas shortages.
Like our Chinese friends, we believe that there should be regional arrangements and that foreign countries should not interfere in the security of the region.
Seven Conditions for US
Rezaei clarified that Tehran would not negotiate with the US on ending the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz until Washington meets seven unspecified demands. 'As long as they do not execute our seven conditions, we will neither open the Strait of Hormuz nor have negotiations,' he said. This stance comes as Qatar intensifies diplomatic efforts to end the conflict amid fears the US could renew attacks following midterm elections where Trump's Republican Party lost control of Congress.
The Republican defeat was attributed to widespread anger over rising prices many blame on the war on Iran. Diplomatic efforts have focused on the Strait of Hormuz's future status, US blockades of Iranian ports, sanctions, and Iran's nuclear program.
Energy Cooperation
The Kremlin meeting also addressed the construction of a gas pipeline from Russia to Iran, with Putin reportedly ready to provide support to end the war. Last month, Putin had told Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian that Russia was prepared to 'do everything' it could toward that end. Separately, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held phone calls with counterparts in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Turkiye and Jordan to discuss regional developments and peace efforts.
Russia and Iran, both under heavy Western sanctions, have strengthened ties since signing a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty in January 2025. On Saturday, Iran announced it had purchased Russian Su-35 fighter jets, with delivery expected after the war ends. The planes were originally scheduled to arrive before fighting began, with preparations and pilot training now complete.
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