[GSlob]

As the "former friends" appellation does not apply to us, the whole argument doesn't. It is much simpler: with the iranians [like with saddams, assads, castros, kims, nassers, quaddafis, chaveses and their kind and ilk] they naturally feel a civilizational affinity - comradeship not so much in arms as in despotism. Have they ever had a decent regime as a client? - Nope, only assorted scoundrels. Thus it did not start yesterday. And if a man is known by a company he keeps, then so is a people, or a country.

[redgolum]

Russia has been trying to influence Iran ( or Persia) since the 1800's. They have had a lot of long time deals with them.

Or, as another poster said, they just want the checks to clear first before we go break things!