Russia caught between its cooperation with Tehran and Israeli demands

For over a year, Russia has maintained a low profile in the Middle East. Preoccupied with the war in Ukraine since its invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, Moscow initially saw the wars in Gaza and Lebanon as opportunities to divert international attention away from its borders. At the same time, the Kremlin sought to retain its influence in the region by striking a balance between its public support for the Palestinian cause and its reluctance to clash with Israel.In recent weeks, however, Israel has reportedly sought Russia’s assistance to consolidate its military gains against Hezbollah, specifically by requesting that Moscow prevent the party from resupplying weapons via Syrian territory. This request places Moscow in a difficult position with its strategic partner, Iran. Will the Kremlin go so far as to reshape its alliances in the Middle...