US Warns Russia Over Alleged Intelligence Sharing with Iran Amid Middle East Tensions

The United States has cautioned Russia against providing intelligence to Iran that could be used to target U.S. Forces and allies in the Middle East. The warning comes amid escalating tensions in the region and follows reports that Moscow has been sharing sensitive information with Tehran, including the locations of U.S. Warships and aircraft.

White House Response

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Donald Trump would be displeased if Russia were to share intelligence with Iran during the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This statement followed a report by the Washington Post detailing Russia’s alleged provision of sensitive intelligence to Tehran [Reuters].

“The president and his special envoy (Steve) Witkoff have both said that, of course, they have sent a message to the Russians that if that happens, it’s not something they would like and they hope it doesn’t happen,” Leavitt said [Meduza].

Witkoff’s Perspective

U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff suggested that Russia’s denials of sharing intelligence with Iran should be accepted. He indicated this stance was intended to prevent further escalation of the situation [Meduza].

“I’m not an intelligence officer, so I can’t tell you,” Witkoff said [CNBC International]. “I can tell you that yesterday in a phone call with the president, the Russians said that they haven’t shared. That’s what they said. So, we can take their word for it,” he added.

Russian Response

Russia has declined to comment on whether the U.S. Issued a warning regarding intelligence sharing with Iran. Russia and Iran have a close alliance, having agreed last year to collaborate in countering “common threats.”

Broader Context

These developments occur against a backdrop of increased U.S. Military presence in the Middle East [Wikipedia], and as peace talks between Ukraine and Russia have been delayed due to the escalating situation in the region [Meduza]. The U.S. And its Middle Eastern allies are also seeking Ukraine’s expertise in countering Iranian Shahed drones [AP News].