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Are we in ‘World War 3’? Putin-linked strategist Dugin warns after US-Israel strikes on Iran

As US-Israel strikes target Iran, Dugin warns of World War 3, stating Russia may suffer consequences if Iran falls. 

Updated on: Mar 2, 2026, 08:21:16 IST
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Russian political philosopher Alexander Dugin has intensified his rhetoric over the escalating Middle East conflict, warning that “World War 3 has begun”. He also said that the global situation could spiral if Iran weakens under sustained military pressure.

Dugin also criticised what he described as a false sense of normalcy inside Russia. (@Osint613/ X)
Dugin also criticised what he described as a false sense of normalcy inside Russia. (@Osint613/ X)

In comments shared by Russian state-backed outlet RT on X, Dugin declared: “WW3 has begun” and later added, “Again.” His remarks followed coordinated US-Israel strikes on Iranian military targets. Follow LIVE updates on US Iran conflict here

According to an X post circulating from open-source intelligence accounts, Dugin has expanded on his warning, arguing that Russia itself could face consequences if Iran collapses.

Dugin warns Russia could be ‘next’

In the post attributed to him, Dugin said:

“If real patriotic reforms do not start in Russia now, the situation will become simply unpredictable. Our allies are being systematically destroyed one by one. It is clear who is next and it is clear what negotiations with such an enemy mean.”

Also Read: ‘Better not do that’: Trump warns Iran against attack, vows to use ‘force that has never been seen before’

He further criticised what he described as a false sense of normalcy inside Russia:

“I believe that the strategy of creating an image that everything is fine in Russia and that peaceful life is going on as usual has exhausted itself. We are next.”

In a direct reference to Iran’s military resilience, he added:

“In a global sense, everything depends on how long the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) holds out. If Iran holds, everything could go in the opposite direction. If it collapses, we are next.”

Also Read: How did US find Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s exact location in Iran?

What triggered the escalation?

The United States and Israel launched “Operation Epic Fury” on February 27, targeting Iranian missile facilities, naval bases and sites near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s office. Khamenei and some of his family members were killed in the strikes, confirmed state media.

The US Central Command said the operation aimed to eliminate immediate threats to American forces and allies in the region.

While Dugin frames the developments as the beginning of a global war, no country has formally declared a world war.

His comments reflect a hardline view that ongoing conflicts, from Ukraine to the Middle East, form part of a broader geopolitical confrontation between Western powers and their rivals.

  • Prakriti Deb
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Prakriti Deb

    Prakriti Deb is a journalist at Hindustan Times Digital, where she is part of the US Desk. She works on stories related to American politics, crime, sports, entertainment and weather. She particularly enjoys covering political developments that have global ripples. Through her work, she aims to break down complex events in a way that feels simple and understandable. Before joining the Hindustan Times, she worked with The Indian Express Digital, where she covered world affairs. She holds a postgraduate degree in Mass Communication with a specialisation in Journalism, along with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature. Outside the newsroom, Prakriti enjoys travelling and stepping out of her comfort zone. She finds her sense of being through storytelling in all its forms, including conversations, painting, theatre, dance and photography. She appreciates discussions that challenge her perspective and help her see the world a little differently.Read More

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