The report analyses how Persian-language—primarily Iranian—media covered the violation of Polish airspace by Russian drones during the night of 9–10 September 2025. Although the incident was significant, Iranian outlets broadly framed it within the broader context of the Russia–NATO rivalry and the war in Ukraine, placing limited emphasis on Poland as an autonomous actor. The analysis covers more than 80 articles, of which 35 representative pieces—drawn from state, private, and foreign Persian-language media—were selected for detailed examination.
Four dominant interpretative frames were identified in Iranian reporting:
(1) the narrative of Russia “testing NATO”;
(2) highlighting the risk of escalation in the Russia–NATO confrontation;
(3) the presence of Russian disinformation narratives and attempts to undermine the credibility of Polish statements;
(4) minimising Moscow’s responsibility by foregrounding its denials.
Apparent differences emerge across media types: principlist and pro-government outlets frequently reproduce pro-Russian messaging; news agencies and centrist media maintain a neutral, informational tone, while reformist, foreign-based, and opposition outlets tend to be critical of Moscow’s actions.
The report concludes that although pro-Russian narratives do not dominate numerically, they exert a noticeable influence on Iranian media and public discourse. At the same time, Persian-language audiences have access to diverse sources of information, creating a competitive narrative environment. The recommendations include strengthening the Polish perspective in Iran’s information space through public diplomacy efforts, systematic monitoring of disinformation, and increasing the availability of Polish analyses and communications in Persian.
