A Russian destroyer docked in Iran on Wednesday morning, deepening concerns that Moscow’s military-to-military cooperation with Tehran is undermining the West’s efforts to isolate the Islamic republic. Iran state media reported comments by Iranian Vice-Admiral Hossein Azad boasting over “strengthening military ties between Iran and Russia.” Russia restored military cooperation with Iran in February after a chill triggered by Moscow’s decision to suspend shipment of advanced S-300 anti-aircraft batteries to the Iranians. A report presented to Congress earlier this year suggested that a Russian state-owned arms manufacturer was aiding Iran’s missile program.

[Photo: alinco_fan / Wiki Commons]