On October 12, 2024, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that despite current tensions, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has found no evidence of military dimensions to Iran's nuclear program. He emphasized that Russia bases its stance on facts, and that individual politicians may express views that do not align with their government's actual policies.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pajeshekiyan met for the first time in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. The leaders discussed the latest developments in West Asia and announced a $1.7 billion export agreement for drones and other defense products between the two nations. Putin openly supported Iran and warned Israel against attacking, stating, 'Do not dare to attack Iran.'
On October 1, Iran launched an attack on Israel with over 180 ballistic missiles, claiming it was retaliation for the deaths of key figures, including Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, who were killed in Israeli strikes. In response, Israel has vowed to retaliate against Iran, with reports indicating that any attack would be more severe and focused on Iran's nuclear facilities and oil plants. Iran has also threatened a powerful response if Israel engages in retaliatory actions.