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This R&D provides resources on Russia’s engagement with the Middle East.  Russia is one of the Middle East’s largest arms suppliers, which dates back to its support of Arab governments during the Cold War.  It recently sold an S-300 missile defense system to Iran, triggering criticism from American and Israeli officials that the sale may prevent an aerial attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.  Russian President Vladimir Putin has also supported Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, thereby challenging American aims for Assad to step down.