Five reasons why Iran is involved in so many global conflicts - BBC World Service

BBC World Service2 minutes read

Iran seeks to assert its influence in the region and globally, stemming from its historical significance and desire for a prominent role in world affairs, with a focus on countering perceived US threats through alliances with nations like Russia and support for anti-US groups. Despite a history of avoiding direct conflict on its soil, recent strikes in neighboring countries suggest a shift towards a more assertive approach, potentially involving nuclear deterrence efforts.

Insights

  • Iran's historical significance as a former powerful empire drives its current pursuit of influence in global politics, particularly in the Middle East, where it seeks to maintain a significant role and counter perceived threats, notably from the US.
  • The evolution of Iran's foreign policy from strategic partnerships with groups like Hamas and Hezbollah to potential nuclear deterrence efforts signals a shift towards a more assertive stance, moving beyond mere defensive strategies to actively shaping regional dynamics through military actions and alliances.

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Recent questions

  • What led to tensions between Iran and the US?

    Historical events and differing ideologies.

  • What is Iran's strategy in the region?

    To be anti-US and seek allies.

  • How does Iran protect itself from threats?

    By developing its missile program.

  • What drives Iran's involvement in conflicts?

    Strategic goals rather than ideology.

  • How does Iran deter direct engagement in conflicts?

    By evolving its strategy and seeking nuclear deterrence.

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Summary

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Iran's Historical Influence and Global Ambitions

  • Iran, once a powerful empire, now tries to influence politics in the region due to its historical significance and desire for a significant role in global affairs.
  • The British discovery of oil in Iran in the 20th Century led to significant influence in the country, culminating in a coup in 1953 that ousted the democratically elected prime minister.
  • The Iranian Revolution in 1979 marked a radical break from Western powers, leading to tensions with the US, including the storming of the American embassy in Tehran.
  • Iran has tried to protect itself from perceived US threats, leading to flares of violence between the two countries, including the assassination of an influential Iranian general.
  • Iran aims to be the most anti-US government in the region, seeking international allies like Russia and supporting enemies of the US.
  • Iran's network of partners and proxies, known as the axis of resistance, includes groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, aiming to deter attacks on Iranian soil.
  • Iran's involvement in conflicts like the Syrian Civil War and support for groups like Hamas is driven by strategic goals rather than ideology.
  • Iran has not fought a war on its own soil since the Iran-Iraq war, focusing on developing its missile program as a deterrent against direct conflict.
  • Iran's strategy of avoiding direct engagement may be evolving, with recent strikes in Iraq, Syria, and Pakistan potentially leading to nuclear deterrence efforts.
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