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Iran may allow Russia to use more air bases to pound terrorists: defense minister

Xinhua, August 21, 2016 Adjust font size:

Iranian Defense Minister Hossein Deqhan said on Saturday that Tehran may allow Russian fighters to use more air bases of the country in the fight against terrorism in the region.

"Currently, using more Iranian air bases is off agenda, but if operational conditions demand, relevant decisions will be taken," Deqhan said alluding to Russia's use of Hamadan airbase in western Iran to pound terrorist strongholds in Syria, according to Tehran Times daily.

The operations from Iran's airbase started on Tuesday as confirmed by the Russian defense ministry and Iranian officials.

On the services given to the Russian squadron in Hamadan air base, the minister said "Iran may offer minor repairs and even load the bombers and fighters."

Deqhan hailed Iran's cooperation with Russia as "strategic," saying that the cooperation seeks to establish stability, peace and security. Endit