"Belarus-Iran Defense Partnership Expands, Boosting Putin's Allies"

Belarus and Iran have strengthened their military ties during a meeting between defense officials in Tehran. Reports suggest that Belarus is working to convert a manufacturing plant to produce Shahed drones for Russia, potentially aiding Russia's war effort in Ukraine. The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on military ties, but it is unclear if an agreement was reached on the Shahed production. This development could indicate a resumption of Tehran-Moscow relations, which had been strained over Russia's stance on Iran's territorial dispute with the United Arab Emirates. The production of Shahed drones in Belarus may suggest that the plan to bring production to Russia is facing challenges.