From Putin's eyes: How Iran struck a US base in Saudi Arabia

A CNN investigation reveals that 14 Russian spy satellites, including the advanced Cosmos 2573, passed over the US Air Force base "Prince Sultan" in Saudi Arabia in perfect coordination two days before Iran's attack. Russian intelligence helped Tehran strike sensitive targets, including an AWACS aircraft and a CIA facility in the Saudi capital. The involvement marks a profound shift in the regional security architecture.

A CNN investigation reveals that 14 Russian spy satellites, including the advanced Cosmos 2573, passed over the US Air Force base "Prince Sultan" in Saudi Arabia in perfect coordination two days before Iran's attack. The satellites collected multidimensional data: signals satellites intercepted communications and radar, infrared satellites detected heat signatures, and synthetic aperture radar satellites capable of penetrating clouds and darkness identified movements of sensitive military assets. The level of precision Russia provided to Iran was unprecedented. The AWACS aircraft, a strategic and valuable asset for the US, was not even parked in its routine location before the war. According to network correspondent Tamara Qiblawi, such a precise strike on a mobile, high-value target would have been nearly impossible without the geospatial intelligence provided by the Russians. Additional sources noted that the intelligence sharing led to further precise strikes during the war, including hitting a CIA facility in the Saudi capital. The "Prince Sultan" base has functioned for decades as a critical hub for the US Air Force in the Middle East. The strike on it is not only economic damage but also a resounding strategic message. Beyond the immediate blow to US prestige, Russian involvement marks a profound shift in the region's security architecture. Putin's Russia, tied to Iran through extensive arms deals, has proven willing to cross red lines and directly endanger American forces, altering the regional balance of fear.