Caspian Sea Becomes Strategic Route for Russia and Iran

The Caspian Sea is becoming increasingly strategic for both Russia and Iran, The New York Times reported. According to US officials, Moscow is supplying Iran with drone components through the route, helping Tehran rebuild its military capabilities after it lost about 60% of its drone arsenal during the conflict with the US and Israel.

The region drew fresh attention after an Israeli strike in March on Iran’s naval headquarters in the Caspian port of Bandar Anzali, which Israel described as one of its most significant attacks on Iran.

Russian traders have reported a sharp rise in traffic across the Caspian Sea. About two million tonnes of Russian wheat bound for Iran now pass through the route each year. Cargo volumes could double by 2026, according to estimates.

The corridor also replaces some traffic that would normally pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been disrupted by the conflict in the Persian Gulf.

Iran has meanwhile diverted imports of basic foodstuffs and raw materials through Caspian ports. Analysts say the region is well suited to circumventing sanctions because ships often disable their tracking systems and only five states have access to the sea: Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan.

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