Piercing the Curtain: Exploring U.S.-Iran Relations and Realism Through the Qasem Soleimani Assassination

Abstract

In the domain of global politics, the validation of realist theory would occur if a majority of states held substantial power. However, the current international system features states with varying degrees of capability, leading to divergent objectives. This divergence contradicts realist assertions, prompting a critical examination in this article. By practically evaluating the international system, the article recognizes the diverse capabilities and objectives of states influenced by dominant states, especially in the case of postcolonial states, often overlooked by realism. Utilizing defensive and offensive theories within classical (neo) realism, the article analyzes the Qasem Soleimani case to demonstrate the importance of diverse theoretical perspectives in broadening analysis. The case study underscores the ongoing relevance of realism in understanding the self-help and anarchic nature of the international system.