At a time when tensions between Israel and Iran teeter on the edge of all‑out war, Russian President Vladimir Putin has thrown down a clear marker: Iran has every right to pursue nuclear energy — as long as it’s for peaceful ends.
Speaking with Nadim Koteich of Sky News Arabia at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Putin didn’t flinch. “We believe that Iran has the right to use nuclear power for peaceful purposes,” he said, making it plain that Russia has supported this stance for years — and will continue to do so.
Importantly, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that there is no evidence of Iran trying to build a bomb. Yet Israel begs to differ. In recent weeks, Tel Aviv launched a series of strikes deep inside Iran, claiming that Tehran is teetering on the brink of weaponizing its nuclear program.
Iran responded with a salvo of missiles and drones, sending a message that it wouldn’t be bullied. Against this tense backdrop, Putin called for restraint and dialogue, reminding both nations that peace can’t be built on ultimatums or aggression.
“We oppose the spread of nuclear weapons in any country,” he stated firmly, making Russia’s position clear. Yet he also added that international law allows Iran the right to pursue nuclear energy — and that Moscow stands ready to help in making that a reality.
The situation is a powder keg. Earlier this month, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi pointed out that Iran is the only state that has amassed uranium enriched to 60% while not being a nuclear weapons state. Meanwhile, US intelligence maintains that there is no evidence Tehran is pursuing an actual bomb.
Then-President Donald Trump, however, claimed Iran was “very close” to acquiring one and has long demanded Tehran’s “unconditional surrender” — hinting that the US might intervene.
Today, Putin finds himself as one of the few leaders with direct lines to both Israel and Iran, possessing a rare vantage point. In a late-night Q&A this week, he called for negotiations that would protect Israel’s security while guaranteeing Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear technology.
In a world teetering between diplomacy and disaster, the question remains: can these bitter enemies come to the table before it’s too late?
