Emerging Iran: Implications for United States Foreign Policy.
Abstract
The revolution in Iran during 1979 represented a major challenge for the United States. Through its sponsored hostage-taking and international terrorism, the new leadership in Tehran became a hated symbol to the American public. Washington. as the remaining economic and military superpower cannot ignore Iran as it occupies a central position in the Southern Asian land mass. With the creation of the Commonwealth of Independent States, Iran borders seven countries of key concern: Pakistan. Afghanistan, Turkmenistan. Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, and Iraq, In addition, five other strategically important countries lie in close proximity in the Gulf to include: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. Maintaining peace in the Middle East is an evolving process whereby the United States continues to struggle to keep regional order and balance. Critical toward regional balance is the importance each Middle Eastern country plays and how they vie for dominance. The future role of Iran is important for long-term stability in the Middle East. This paper will examine Iran emerging as a major force in the Middle East and implications toward United States foreign policy decisions. The paper describes the buildup of military and nuclear forces as examples of Iran reemerging as a regional power. Considerations will highlight the effectiveness of the Iranian government as it influences foreign policy decisions and finally. implications and recommendations for United States foreign policy toward Iran.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 15, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA263913
Entities
People
- David A. Schantz
Organizations
- United States Army War College