Russia has begun supplying Iran with intelligence on the positions of U.S. military assets in the Middle East, including warships, aircraft, and troops, according to multiple U.S. officials. The information, drawn largely from Russian satellite imagery, marks the first known instance of direct Moscow involvement in the conflict that erupted between the U.S., Israel, and Iran last week.

Three U.S. officials familiar with the intelligence told The Washington Post that the targeting data could assist Iran in locating American radar systems, communication infrastructure, and naval vessels. Four sources confirmed the assistance to NBC News, noting it stems from Russia's advanced satellite network but does not extend to directing specific strikes. Iranian drones have struck U.S. facilities in recent days, including a Sunday attack on a tactical operations center in Kuwait that killed six U.S. Reserve soldiers, though no direct link to Russian data has been established.

The disclosures come on day seven of what the Pentagon calls a limited operation to dismantle Iran's ballistic missile arsenal, viewed as a shield for its nuclear program. U.S. and Israeli airstrikes, involving over 50,000 American troops, more than 200 fighter jets, and two aircraft carriers, have reduced Iran's missile launches by 90 percent and drone attacks by 83 percent. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile barrages on U.S. bases and regional allies, prompting over 800 Patriot intercepts in the first three days.

Russia and Iran have deepened military ties over the past three years, with Tehran supplying Moscow Shahed drones and ballistic missiles for Ukraine in exchange for technology support, including potential nuclear assistance. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged long-standing cooperation with Russia, stating they are supporting Iran "politically and otherwise." The Kremlin confirmed ongoing dialogue with Tehran but declined further comment.

U.S. officials downplayed the impact. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said Russia and China "are not really a factor here." White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly asserted, "The Iranian regime is being absolutely crushed," citing diminished retaliatory capabilities. One U.S. source noted, "This shows Russia still likes Iran very much."

The war has caused over 1,300 deaths in Iran and more than 200 in Lebanon from related Israeli operations, with economic ripples including Kuwait halting oil production and fears of $150 per barrel prices. U.S. intelligence also suggests China may supply Iran with financial aid and parts, though Beijing prioritizes Strait of Hormuz stability for its oil imports.