Russia and Iran criticise US Caspian task force

US creates Caspian task force

US Central Command announced a new task force to monitor and block Iran's trade and transport routes in the Caspian region.

Russia calls it a violation

Russia's Foreign Ministry described the task force as a 'clear threat' to the rights and interests of littoral states.

“a clear violation of international law”

Iran warns of military escalation

Iran issued warnings about widening military confrontation following US task force creation.

ISW study reveals cooperation

Institute for the Study of War found Iran and Russia cooperate to evade US sanctions through Caspian Sea trade routes.

Historical sanction evasion

Iran used Caspian Sea trade routes with Russia to import arms during the 2026 US-Israel-Iran War.

Sanction evasion method

Sanctioned Russian cargo ships transfer cargo to Iranian ports while switching off AIS systems.

Ukraine strikes shipment

Ukraine targeted two cargo ships in Caspian Sea involved in Iran-Russia arms transfers.

Railway project progress

Iran and Russia approved railway construction linking Russia to Persian Gulf ports.

Gas pipeline plans

Iran and Russia plan gas pipelines to address fuel shortages and enable exports.

Strait of Hormuz incident

Two supertankers halted in Strait of Hormuz after massive explosion.

Iran's missile range expansion

Iran increased ballistic missile range from 1,400 to 2,000 kilometres with new missile system.

Iran warns of military response

Iran threatens to target US military bases if US starts war against Iran.