Russia and Iran are poised to formalize a significant 'comprehensive strategic partnership' treaty this Friday, coinciding with an official visit by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Moscow. This development, announced by the Kremlin, raises apprehensions among Western nations, as both countries have intensified their military and political collaboration in light of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the turbulent situation in the Middle East. On January 17, President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to engage in discussions with President Pezeshkian. The agenda for their meeting will not only include the signing of the partnership agreement but will also encompass talks on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors such as trade, investment, transportation, logistics, and humanitarian efforts. Additionally, they aim to address pressing regional and international issues. Both nations find themselves under stringent Western sanctions that significantly impact their crucial energy sectors. This treaty follows a similar accord that Putin established with North Korea last year, further solidifying his alliance with Pyongyang. Under the terms of that agreement, both nations pledged military support to one another in the event of an invasion or attack. Reports indicate that North Korea has contributed thousands of troops to assist in Russia's military efforts against Ukraine, with numerous casualties reported among these forces. Furthermore, Western intelligence sources have accused North Korea of supplying extensive artillery and missile components to Russia. During a previous meeting within the BRICS framework, Putin expressed his appreciation for the amicable and constructive relationship shared between Russia and Iran. There are ongoing allegations from Ukraine and Western nations claiming that Iran has provided Russia with drone technology, specifically the Shahed drones, which have been deployed in nighttime assaults on Ukrainian targets. The timing of President Pezeshkian's visit is particularly noteworthy, as it precedes the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is advocating for swift resolutions to the ongoing conflicts in both Ukraine and the Middle East. Additionally, this visit follows a recent rebel offensive that resulted in the ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, a leader who has received substantial backing from both Moscow and Tehran.