Power Couple: Russian-Iranian Alignment in the Middle East

Iran and Russia have expanded their cooperation to unprecedented levels,altering power dynamics and elevating Iran from a junior partner to an equal counterpart. Ghoncheh Tazmini's book argues for a Russia-Iran 'alignment based on shared narratives of the international order. The relationship has demonstrated resilience and holds decisive implications for the Middle East's future, with interests both overlapping and diverging in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and with the GCC. Tazmini explains why Moscow-Tehran relations are more durable than many in the Western world and the Middle East may perceive.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The partnership between Iran and Russia has reached unprecedented heights, particularly in the aftermath of the Russian offensive in Ukraine. This transformation has altered power dynamics and elevated Iran from a junior partner to an equal counterpart. What has caught the attention of observers is the surprising level of dependence that Russia has developed on Iran in various unexpected areas.

In her book, "Ghoncheh Tazmini," the author offers a fresh perspective on the intricate relationship between Russia and Iran. Tazmini advocates for a Russia-Iran alignment based on their shared narratives of the international order. The two states are interconnected by a web of ontological security concerns and mutual perceptions of threats. Despite their historical animosities and ongoing suspicions, the relationship has shown remarkable resilience, oscillating between conflict and convergence.

The Iran-Russia relationship holds significant implications for the future of the Middle East, where their interests both converge and diverge, particularly in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Tazmini delves into the geopolitical aspirations of both Russia and Iran in the Middle Eastern theater and examines how evolving international realities shape their regional policies.

Through a combination of sophisticated theoretical analysis and empirical insights, Tazmini explains why Moscow-Tehran relations are more durable than many in the Western world and the Middle East may perceive. The author sheds light on the factors that contribute to the strength of the partnership and explores the challenges and opportunities it presents.

It is expected that the close alignment between Russia and Iran will continue, despite criticism and sanctions. The "Power Couple" remains determined to establish a foothold in the international system through their collaborative efforts.

In conclusion, the Iran-Russia partnership has undergone a remarkable transformation, elevating Iran to a position of equal importance and expanding their cooperation to unprecedented levels. The surprising level of dependence between Russia and Iran in various areas has caught the attention of observers. Ghoncheh Tazmini's book provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between these two states and its implications for the Middle East's future. As the partnership persists, it will be interesting to see how it shapes the regional dynamics and the global order.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755640454