Moscow: Russia has dispatched humanitarian assistance to Iran amid escalation in hostilities involving the United States and Israel. According to the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations, more than 13 tonnes of medicines and other essential medical supplies have been sent to Iran on the direct instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The aid was transported by a special aircraft from Russia to Azerbaijan and subsequently handed over to Iranian authorities. The ministry said the route through Azerbaijan was chosen to ensure the safe delivery of relief supplies amid the ongoing conflict.
Regional tensions have sharply intensified since February 28, when the United States and Israel launched coordinated attacks on Iran. Reports indicate that more than 1,300 people were killed in the strikes, including Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and members of his family.
In retaliation, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks targeting US military bases and diplomatic facilities in Israel and several Gulf countries, further raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
Meanwhile, in related news, the US said that it is currently unable to provide naval escorts for commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. In an interview with CNBC, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said so, taking a U-turn from its earlier stand, while tensions remain heightened with Iran and disruptions continue to global oil supplies.
Wright indicated that the United States Navy is not presently equipped to escort oil tankers through the strategic waterway, though preparations are underway and the capability could be in place by the end of the month. He said the US military’s immediate priority is targeting Iran’s offensive capabilities and the military production infrastructure that supports them.
The comments come after Iran imposed restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz following a military standoff with the United States. US President Donald Trump had earlier indicated that the Navy would escort tankers through the strait if required.