Russia's evolving stance: A shift towards support for Iran and extremist movements

In recent months, Russia's foreign policy stance has undergone a notable shift, marked by increased support for Iran and a more sympathetic outlook towards extremist groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Additionally, Moscow has adopted an overtly anti-Israel position since October 7th, further reflecting this shift.

One of the key indicators of this evolving stance is the growing alliance between Russia and Iran.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu held telephone calls on Monday with their Iranian counterparts, signaling a deepening diplomatic relationship. This alignment has been underscored by Iran's provision of weaponry to Russia for potential use in Ukraine, cementing their strategic partnership.

Another significant aspect of this shift is the criticism leveled by both Russia and Iran against Israeli actions, particularly in the Gaza Strip.

Moscow has not hesitated to condemn Israeli policies, and this anti-Israel stance has become increasingly evident in its diplomatic rhetoric.

Furthermore, Russia's evolving stance has seen it leaning towards supporting extremist movements in the Middle East, including Hezbollah and Hamas.

These groups have long been designated as terrorist organizations by many nations, but Moscow's position seems to be shifting towards a more accommodating stance.

While the reasons behind Russia's changing foreign policy are complex and multifaceted, it is clear that a more pronounced alignment with Iran and a shift towards supporting certain extremist movements in the region are defining features of this evolving stance.

This transformation in Russia's foreign policy bears close observation, as it has the potential to impact the geopolitics of the Middle East and beyond.