Axis of Unity

Axis of Unity refers to the strategic, political, economic and ideological alliance between Iran and Venezuela. It was formed primarily to oppose US imperialism and hegemony. The alliance was forged by Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez and Iranian President Mohammad Khatami, during the early 2000s. Despite the contrasting political system, Venezuela's Bolivarian socialist government and Iran's theocratic Islamic Republic, the alliance continues under their successors holding the same anti imperialist views.

Background

Formal diplomatic relations between the countries began in mid 20th century, the bond became stronger once Chavez came to power in 1999. The alliance began as both countries holding mutual solidarity against US foreign policy, seeking to undermine national sovereignties and control strategic resources like oil. During Chavez and Khatami presidency there were multiple visits to Caracas and Tehran. Chavez publicly stated his support to Iran's resistance to US influence, committing Venezuela to stand by Iran “under any conditions.”. In return Iranian leaders replied with emphasizing that both countries share a struggle against US imperialism, and that they seek a world built on justice. During his 2007 visit to Tehran, Chávez and Ahmadinejad used the phrase "Axis of Unity" to describe a new alliance of “revolutionary states.”^[1][2][3][4]

Political and ideological foundations

Although Venezuela's socialist Bolivarian project and Iran's theocratic Shi’ite system are ideologically different, even contrasting, both countries have built an alliance around shared opposition to what they view as a US imperial agenda. Both of them face US sanctions and international isolation, which has pushed them to collaborate more closely. Their partnership emphasizes national sovereignty, mutual respect, and solidarity with oppressed peoples worldwide. In practice, they align in rejecting US interventions, opposing the State of Israel, and supporting Palestinian causes.^[5][6][7][8]

Economic and strategic cooperation

Over the years, Iran's and Venezuela's collaboration tightened in areas such as energy, industry, trade, and defense. They initiated projects of joint oil and petrochemical ventures, technology transfer, and mutual support against sanctions. Iran has constantly supported Venezuela with essential oil shipments and industrial equipment, helping it through acute fuel shortages and US sanctions. In 2022, a 20-year cooperation pact was signed in oil, petrochemicals, and defense. Both are active in OPEC and seek to influence global oil markets collaboratively.^[9][10][11]

Geopolitical significance

The "Axis of Unity" has a geopolitical significance as it represents a wider resistance coalition against US dominance. It is part of a wider move aiming for a world with several centers of influence, rather than one led by the west. Their cooperation represents a different anti imperialist agenda, where joining forces can oppose what they see as US military interference, economic pressure, and efforts to isolate them politically.^[1][12][13]

Continuing cooperation

The "Axis of Unity" continues though the leadership changes in both countries. As of 2025 President Nicolás Maduro and President Ebrahim Raisi maintain close relations, continuing to cultivate the strategic relationship. They stress resisting imperialism, protecting national independence, and working together on development projects set out in major cooperation agreements. This alliance They stress resisting imperialism, protecting national independence, and working together on development projects set out in major cooperation agreements.^[1][14][13]

Controversy

Sanctions-busting oil deals.

Since 2020, Iran has sent fuel, diluents, and refinery support to Venezuela.^[15] In return according to reports it received oil and gold, which caused claims they were evading sanctions systematically.^[16][17] Between 2024 and 2025, it was reported the swap deal started breaking down because Venezuela fell behind on its deliveries. This showed the deal was both fragile and not very transparent.^[18][19]

The “ghost flights” and the seized 747.

The "ghost flights" are irregular cargo/passenger flights operated by sanctioned airlines (Mahan Air, Conviasa/Emtrasur) that have drawn scrutiny for suspected transfers of sanctioned cargo and personnel. The most notable case was the Emtrasur 747 grounded in Argentina in June 2022 and ultimately seized and transferred to the US in Feb 2024.^[20]

Military and security cooperation.

Since Chavez came to power in Venezuela, drone collaboration with Iran leading to claims that Iran has sent drones or precision weapons to Venezuela. This worries the US and regional officials, even though solid proof is often limited. Reports from governments and think tanks keep watching for possible Venezuelan requests for Iranian drones as tensions grow.^[21][22]

Deepening agreements beyond oil

From 2023 onwards, Iran has been looking to widen its collaboration with Latin America. Though visits, agreements and dispatching specialists Iran tried to overcome sanctions laid on it.^[23][24]

See also

• Axis of Resistance
• Iranian shadow fleet
• International sanctions against Iran
• Iran's Gasoline Crisis
• Iranian energy crisis
• 2025 United States naval deployment in the Caribbean