Overview

Iran has emerged from decades of isolation and struggle to become a leading, if not the pre-eminent, regional power. Iran projects its influence throughout the Middle East and parts of Central Asia. Moreover, Iranian diplomacy is active on the world stage, with long-term projects in Africa and South America. The landmark nuclear deal of July 2015 was a major triumph and saw the Islamic Republic successfully negotiate with several world powers to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Crucially, whilst the nuclear deal restricts Iran's nuclear programme for at least a decade, it doesn't irreversibly dismantle any part of it. With internal Iranian politics stabilising around a centrist administration led by President Rouhani, the country is set to continue on a path of regional strategic growth. But with clear signs that the Trump administration is determined to contain Iran's regional influence, what is the risk of a military confrontation? This book argues that Iran has developed sufficient diplomatic strength and credible military capability to deter a full-scale US military assault. But absent a dramatic lowering of tensions, there remains a risk of limited clashes, with far-reaching consequences for regional security.

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9781849049559

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Reviews

'A valuable book capturing the rise of Iran as a regional superpower, written with analytical acumen. This is a distinctly convincing and readable analysis of Iran's role in the region and beyond.' -- Arshin Adib-Moghaddam, Professor in Global Thought and Comparative Philosophies, SOAS, University of London

Author Information

Mahan Abedin is an Iranian-born British journalist and analyst of Iranian and Middle Eastern politics. His strong thinktank background includes stints at the Washington-based Jamestown Foundation and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses in New Delhi. Abedin regularly appears on international broadcasting media, including the BBC and Al-Jazeera English, to comment on the latest developments in Iranian politics.

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