Iran has officially distanced itself from Russia, especially in the context of the South Caucasus. In an interview with the American publication The New York Times, Iran's ambassador to Armenia Mehdi Sobhani said that despite their common interests, Tehran and Moscow are not allies. These words highlight the growing contradictions in the regional policies of the two countries.

According to Sobhani, Iranian and Russian interests in the South Caucasus differ significantly, which is especially noticeable in the context of the complex situation around Armenia and Azerbaijan. The ambassador noted that there are “some differences” in approaches to strategic issues between the countries, and rapprochement in certain areas is not an indicator of a full-fledged alliance.

"We are not allies," he stressed, adding that certain common interests cannot serve as a basis for close cooperation.

These statements came against the backdrop of an escalating situation in the region, where Iran is actively advocating for the preservation of Armenia’s territorial integrity, while Russia, according to some experts, is maintaining a more flexible position, balancing its relations with Baku.

From Iran’s perspective, Russia is more driven by its own strategic interests, and Tehran understands this, maintaining only limited engagement. In recent months, Iran has also increased its military presence on the border with Armenia, sending a further signal of its seriousness in protecting its interests in the region.