After Iran unleashed a torrent of missiles against its neighbours – including those with whom it had enjoyed friendly relations such as Turkey and Azerbaijan – few regional leaders are in the mood to congratulate the new Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

Few, but not none. ‘At a time when Iran is confronting armed aggression, your work in this high office will undoubtedly require great courage and dedication,’ wrote Vladimir Putin in an official message of congratulation to Khamenei Junior. ‘I am confident that you will honourably continue your father’s legacy and unite the Iranian people in the face of these severe trials.’ Putin was also at pains to ‘reaffirm our unwavering support for Tehran and our solidarity with our Iranian friends’ and claimed that Russia ‘has been and will remain a reliable partner of the Islamic Republic.’

Putin remains, as he has always been, an equal-opportunities disruptor

Putin remains, as he has always been, an equal-opportunities disruptor

In addition to thoughts and prayers, the Kremlin has reportedly in recent days also offered something of more practical use to Teheran – satellite targeting for Iran’s missiles, including the location of US military targets in the region. If reports in the Washington Post that Moscow is helping to target US forces are confirmed, that represents a substantive involvement in Iran’s attempt to set the East ablaze as well as a serious provocation to........

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