Russia has condemned threats of military strikes against Iran, warning that attacking the country's nuclear installations could have catastrophic consequences for the region. The Russian foreign ministry stated that the use of military force by Iran's opponents is illegal and unacceptable, and that such threats are simply unacceptable. Russia and Iran have a strategic partnership agreement, but there is no mutual defence clause. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov warned that an attack on Iran could lead to a broader conflict in the Middle East.