Iran and the regionalization of (in)security

Abstract

The aim of this article is to improve understanding of Iran’s place in the contemporary international system through a study of its place in the regional security architecture. Though Iran since the revolution often has been cast as a ‘revolutionary’ state, or security spoiler, a study of its international relations over the long run suggests that it is better seen as a rising power in a complex and contested regional system. Its power aspirations – not least its nuclear programme – have clashed over time with both regional and external actors, but ambition matched with pragmatism provide a continuous theme in foreign policymaking in both pre- and post-revolutionary Iran. The description of Iran as an aspiring regional power is demonstrated through a review of some of its major foreign policy initiatives.