Iran Delays Trump Talks While Importing Russian Arms

The Boeing 747-281F freighter (EP-FAB) operated by Iranian cargo carrier Fars Air Qeshm as flight QFZ9974 departed Moscow Sheremetyevo (SVO) on February 9, 2026, and landed in Tehran Mehrabad (THR) after a direct southern route over the Caspian region, avoiding restricted airspace.

Amid escalating U.S.-Iran tensions and ongoing indirect nuclear talks mediated in Oman—where President Trump described discussions as “very good” but warned of steep consequences if no deal materializes—Tehran appears to be stalling deeper negotiations by focusing narrowly on nuclear issues while excluding missiles and defense capabilities.

This flight, part of a pattern of Russia-Iran cargo links (including frequent heavy-lift operations amid reports of arms exchanges), is widely suspected of facilitating the import of Russian military hardware, such as air defense systems, components, or related equipment, to bolster Iran’s capabilities before potential U.S. pressure or strikes intensifies. Analysts suggest these shipments reflect Tehran’s strategy to strengthen deterrence and negotiating leverage during the fragile diplomatic window, as Trump ramps up tariffs on nations trading with Iran and maintains a massive naval presence in the region.

There were also other cargo flights seen going to and from China.

Saha Airlines, a subsidiary with ties to Iranian military logistics, deploys these aging 747-200F variants for heavy-lift international cargo amid sanctions and geopolitical alliances.