Britain, U.S. concerned over Russia-Iran weapons and nuclear tech exchange – media

According to Bloomberg, British and American officials describe the growing military collaboration between Russia and Iran as deeply troubling, warning that it signals a dangerous escalation in their relationship.

A White House National Security Council spokesperson said the Biden administration remains highly concerned about Iran's nuclear activities. The spokesperson emphasized that President Joe Biden has been clear: the U.S. is ready to use all necessary measures to prevent nuclear escalation by Iran.

In a joint statement, the Group of Seven foreign ministers condemned “Iran’s export and Russia’s procurement of Iranian ballistic missiles,” labeling it a further escalation of Iran’s military support for Russia’s war in Ukraine and demanding its immediate halt.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a recent visit to London, hinted at a potential exchange of nuclear technology between Russia and Tehran, noting that Moscow had already received a shipment of Iranian Fath-360 ballistic missiles.

"For its part, Russia is sharing technology that Iran seeks — this is a two-way street — including on nuclear issues, as well as some space information," Blinken said.

Blinken and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy agreed during their talks in London that "Iran’s nuclear program had never been more advanced."

Iran insists it has no plans to develop nuclear weapons, but concerns persist that rising tensions with Israel could prompt Tehran to pursue one.

• It’s likely Russia is after specific technical elements related to the jet engines used in the missiles Iran produces, says aviation expert Anatoliy Khrapchynskyi.