The conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel, now in its second month as of March 28, 2026, has expanded beyond a localized struggle. Multiple nations and groups are providing support to Iran, reshaping geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East, and beyond.
Russia’s Discreet Support
Russia has emerged as a key, though largely unacknowledged, supporter of Iran. Reports suggest indirect aid is flowing to Tehran, potentially including data from Russia’s Liana satellite system, designed for tracking naval forces.
According to a researcher at the Jamestown Foundation, the Liana system “was created to spy on U.S. Carrier strike groups and other naval forces, and to identify them as targets.”
Russia also plays a role in Iran’s space program, potentially receiving and processing data from Iranian mapping satellites.
China’s Strategic Positioning
China is providing indirect support to Iran, reportedly deploying ships capable of tracking U.S. Fleets and providing targeting data during the deployment of U.S. Forces to the Middle East in early 2026.
Reports from JINSA suggest Chinese companies have been publishing satellite imagery of U.S. Assets in the region, including THAAD batteries in Jordan and F-22 aircraft in Israel.
Regional Actors Join the Fray
Houthi Involvement (Yemen)
The Houthi movement in Yemen has launched attacks against Israel for the first time since the conflict escalated, signaling a broadening of the conflict’s scope. On March 28th, the Houthis launched two missile and drone attacks against Israel, vowing continued support for “the resistance front in Palestine, Lebanon, Iraq, and Iran.”
Hezbollah’s Escalation (Lebanon)
Lebanon is experiencing increased Israeli strikes, escalating since March 2nd, following Hezbollah’s response to attacks on Iran. Hezbollah framed its attacks as retaliation for the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Despite a formal ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah since November 2024, the UN has recorded over 10,000 violations of the ceasefire by Israel, resulting in numerous casualties in Lebanon.
PMF’s Role (Iraq)
Pro-Iran armed groups within Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) have claimed responsibility for attacks targeting U.S. Interests in Iraq and abroad, making them targets of retaliatory strikes. The PMF was originally formed in 2014 to combat ISIS.
Global Economic Impacts and Future Outlook
The conflict’s expansion is creating significant instability. Attacks on energy infrastructure in Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, have caused surges in oil and gas prices. Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz and its collection of tolls in Chinese yuan for oil shipments further disrupt global trade.
The situation remains highly volatile. Ongoing talks between the U.S. And Iran are characterized by conflicting narratives, with President Trump claiming Iran is eager to reach a deal, a claim that has not been independently verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current death toll?
As of March 27, 2026, preliminary figures indicate 1,937 deaths in Iran, at least 19 in Israel, 13 U.S. Service members, and 25 deaths in Gulf states.
Which countries have been directly attacked?
Iran, Israel, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the United Kingdom (British Indian Ocean Territory, Cyprus) have all been targeted.
What role is Russia playing?
Russia is suspected of providing intelligence support to Iran, potentially through its Liana satellite system and collaboration on space programs.
As the conflict expands and involves more actors, what impact will this have on the long-term stability of the Middle East?
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