The simmering conflict between Israel and Iran, characterized by “clean and smart” exchanges of drones and missiles, has entered a precarious new phase, shadowed by the behind-the-scenes involvement of global powers. While direct damage has so far been limited, the looming presence of the United States and Russia injects an unpredictable element that could swiftly escalate the situation beyond controlled parameters.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking at an economic forum in Saint Petersburg, distanced Moscow from a formal mediation role, stating, “We are by no means seeking to act as a mediator, we are simply suggesting ideas. If they turn out to be attractive to both sides, we will only be happy.” This statement comes amidst the Kremlin’s efforts to position itself as a peacemaker, even as Western leaders push back on Putin’s involvement and Israel has reportedly shown little interest in Moscow’s overtures. Despite a recently signed sweeping strategic partnership agreement with Iran, Russia has notably not offered military assistance to its ally and has downplayed its obligations under the pact. The Russian foreign ministry, however, issued a stern warning to the United States against “military intervention” in the conflict, as Washington weighs its options regarding joining Israel’s strikes.
The complexity of this “clean and smart” conflict is precisely its entanglement with these major powers. The United States, while not directly involved in the recent strikes, has reportedly allowed numerous Israeli missiles and drones to traverse Iraqi airspace, indicating a level of tacit support for Israel’s actions. Meanwhile, Russia’s strategic alliance with Iran, formalized in a 20-year comprehensive partnership treaty signed in January 2025, solidifies their cooperation in various sectors, including defense. This agreement, ratified by both countries, includes provisions for military and political partnerships and opposition to “unlawful extraterritorial sanctions,” a clear reference to US measures.
The current dynamic, where Israel and Iran engage in calculated, if still dangerous, exchanges, could unravel dramatically if the United States and Russia move beyond their indirect involvement into an openly hostile confrontation. Such a development would shatter any hope for a contained, “clean and smart” resolution, threatening to plunge the region, and potentially beyond, into a far more widespread and unpredictable conflict. The calls for diplomacy from various international bodies, including the UN and European nations, underscore the urgent need to de-escalate tensions and prevent the proxy conflict from igniting a direct confrontation between the world’s major powers.
All names of people and organizations appearing in this story are pseudonyms
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