Iran’s involvement in various global conflicts can be traced back to a complex interplay of historical, religious, geopolitical, and economic factors. Since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, which ousted the pro-Western monarchy and established an Islamic Republic, Iran has pursued policies that often put it at odds with Western powers, neighboring countries, and various non-state actors. This involvement is rooted in its desire for regional influence, defense of Shia Islam, ideological opposition to Israel and the United States, and control over vital economic resources. To understand Iran’s position in global conflicts, it’s essential to consider the multifaceted aspects of its foreign policy and regional ambitions.
The ideological foundation of the Islamic Republic of Iran significantly contributes to its involvement in regional conflicts. The revolutionary ethos of 1979 emphasized not just the overthrow of the Shah but the establishment of a government based on Shia Islamic principles under the concept of Velayat-e Faqih, or governance by Islamic jurists. This ideological stance inherently opposes Western political influence and seeks to export its revolutionary ideals, viewing itself as the defender of oppressed Muslims worldwide. Consequently, Iran has supported various Shia militias and political movements across the Middle East, seeing this support as both a religious duty and a means of expanding its influence.
Iran’s geopolitical strategy is another crucial factor. Situated in a volatile region, it shares borders with several countries of strategic importance and faces considerable hostility from many of its neighbors, particularly after the revolution. Its geopolitical objectives include controlling or influencing governments in countries like Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen to create a "Shia crescent" that extends its influence across the Middle East. This strategy also serves as a buffer against hostile forces, particularly Israel and Sunni Arab states, which Tehran views as direct threats to its security and regional ambitions.
The rivalry with the United States and its allies has further deepened Iran’s involvement in conflicts. Following the 1979 U.S. embassy hostage crisis, Iran and the United States have been in a state of animosity, leading to various sanctions and military confrontations. The U.S. support for Iraq during the Iran-Iraq war in the 1980s, and its presence in the Middle East post-9/11, have only intensified these tensions. Iran sees its involvement in supporting allied groups and governments within the region as a counterbalance to American influence and a way to deter potential attacks on its territory.
Iran’s support for non-state actors and militant groups is another dimension of its conflict involvement. Groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Palestine, and the Houthis in Yemen have received financial, military, and political support from Tehran. Iran views these groups as part of its axis of resistance against Israel and the United States, providing it with strategic depth and leverage in the region. This support has drawn criticism and sanctions from the international community, further isolating Iran but also solidifying its role as a key player in regional dynamics.
Economic factors also play a significant role in Iran’s involvement in global conflicts. The country possesses significant oil and gas reserves, making it a crucial energy player. However, international sanctions, primarily due to its nuclear program, have severely impacted its economy. Iran seeks to secure its economic interests through regional dominance and ensuring the security of its energy exports. For instance, its involvement in Syria can be partly attributed to securing a corridor for its energy exports to the Mediterranean Sea.
Finally, Iran’s complex relationship with its Sunni Arab neighbors, particularly Saudi Arabia, underpins much of its conflict involvement. The Sunni-Shia divide, coupled with geopolitical rivalry, has led to proxy wars in countries like Yemen and Syria, exacerbating regional tensions. The competition for influence between these regional powerhouses has fueled sectarianism and instability, with Iran often portrayed as a destabilizing force by its adversaries.
Iran’s involvement in global conflicts is a product of its revolutionary ideology, geopolitical strategy, adversarial relations with the United States and its allies, support for like-minded groups and governments, economic ambitions, and regional rivalries. These factors interconnect in a way that drives Tehran to seek a dominant role in the Middle East and beyond, often putting it at the center of various conflicts. Understanding Iran’s motivations requires a nuanced analysis of these multifaceted drivers, which are rooted in both its historical experiences and its current strategic imperatives.