Russia Accuses U.S. And Israel of Disrupting Trade with Iran After Caspian Sea Port Strike

Moscow has accused the U.S. And Israel of escalating tensions in the Middle East and impacting Russian economic interests after a strike on a major Caspian Sea port in northern Iran. The incident, which targeted vessels at the port of Anzali, has prompted concerns about the potential for wider conflict and disruption to regional trade routes.

IDF Confirms Strike on Iranian Warships

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the strike targeted more than five Iranian warships docked at the port of Anzali. According to IDF officials, these vessels were equipped with anti-aircraft weapons that could pose a threat to aircraft involved in Operation Epic Fury and Operation Roaring Lion – the ongoing U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran.

Russian Response and Accusations

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned the U.S.-Israeli coalition, accusing them of “pouring fuel on the flames of the war they have unleashed in the Middle East.” She further stated that the strike directly affected Russia’s economic interests, as Bandar Anzali is a crucial trade and logistics hub for Russian-Iranian commerce, including food deliveries. The Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of the Caspian Sea as a “safe zone of peace and cooperation,” warning that the actions of the “aggressors” could draw Caspian states into an armed conflict.

Strategic Importance of the Caspian Sea

The Caspian Sea, the world’s largest inland body of water, is bordered by Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia. It serves as a vital transit route for goods and materials between these nations and beyond. Historically, the Caspian Sea has been used for military trade, with U.S. Officials noting that Iranian drones were shipped to Russia via the Caspian Sea and used in the war in Ukraine. In exchange, Russia has reportedly provided Iran with advanced military technology, such as Su-35 fighter jets and attack helicopters.

Russia Calls for Ceasefire

Amidst the escalating tensions, Russia is calling for a ceasefire in the conflict, expressing concern that the war is “increasingly affecting neighboring regions.” Ms. Zakharova reiterated this call, emphasizing the require for de-escalation and a return to negotiations.

Targeted Facility: Shahid Tamjidi Offshore Industries

The Institute for the Study of War think tank reported that one of the targets at Anzali city was likely Shahid Tamjidi Offshore Industries, a subsidiary of the Iranian Defense and Armed Forces Logistics Ministry.