When Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, officials in Russia described the current escalation in the Middle East as "alarming" and "dangerous." Still, Russian media were quick to stress the potential positives for Moscow.

Analysts say the Kremlin is prioritizing its own war against Ukraine, as well as its relations with Gulf nations that don’t want to see a stronger Iran.

Russia and Iran have long been economic and strategic partners. But despite a new defense pact, the Kremlin is unlikely to offer military aid to Iran in the conflict with Israel.