Russian Rocket Successfully Launches Iranian Satellites

A Russian rocket successfully launched two Iranian satellites into orbit on Tuesday, signaling increased collaboration between Moscow and Tehran. The Soyuz rocket, departing from the Vostochny launchpad in Russia, delivered its payload into orbit within nine minutes. The payload included two Iranian satellites, Kowsar and Hodhod; it marks the Iranian private sector's first satellite launch. This milestone follows a 2022 launch of an Iranian satellite built by Russia.

The launch signifies deepening ties between the two nations amid geopolitical tensions. The West has accused Tehran of supplying Moscow with exploding drones to use against Ukraine, a claim both countries deny. Further bolstering this partnership, Moscow and Tehran are gearing up to sign a "comprehensive strategic partnership" during Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's upcoming visit to Russia, although no specific date has been confirmed. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)