Five reasons why Iran is involved in so many global conflicts - BBC World Service
BBC World Service・10 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.
