Middle Eastern Geopolitical Dynamics and Strategic Implications for Iran

The recent regional developments, particularly surrounding President Donald Trump’s diplomatic tour of the Gulf, have deepened existing geopolitical fault lines in the Middle East. This report assesses the impact of these dynamics on the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Pezeshkian’s Official Visit to Baku and Iran-Azerbaijan Relations

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s official visit to Azerbaijan is a significant step towards restoring bilateral relations between Tehran and Baku after years of tensions. Several cooperation agreements signal a cautious but realignment of Iranian-Azerbaijani relations in a highly competitive geopolitical landscape.
Afghanistan: Is Iran Seeking an Alternative to Syria?

This report examines Iran’s evolving strategic posture in Afghanistan following the erosion of its influence in Syria. The loss of key proxy leaders, Israel’s war in Gaza, and Syria’s collapse as a reliable geographical link force Tehran to seek alternative arenas. The aim of this report is to assess whether Afghanistan could emerge as Iran’s…
From Missiles to Militias: Decoding Iran’s Multi-Dimensional Deterrence in the Gulf

For Iran, protecting its maritime borders and the safeguarding of its industrial, military, and oil infrastructure along the coastline constitute a geostrategic imperative. In light of increasing Israeli hostility and the push for direct confrontation between the Tel Aviv–Washington axis and the Islamic Republic of Iran, assessing Tehran’s deterrence strategy in the region has become…
US Military Build-Up on Diego Garcia: Show of Force or Prelude to Conflict with Iran?

The United States has significantly reinforced its military presence in Diego Garcia, issuing an ultimatum to Iran for a new nuclear deal. This move raises concerns about a potential military confrontation. The aim of this report is to assess whether this escalation is a strategic bluff to push Tehran into negotiations or a genuine prelude…
Silicon Persia: Iran’s AI Aspirations and the Global Tech Order

This report examines Iran’s strategic advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), as President Pezeshkian has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing this sector. The Iranian government has committed $115 million to AI research and aims to position itself as a regional leader in this field.
“Maritime Security Belt 2025” Naval Exercise: Developing Security Architecture Of The Indian Ocean

The seventh annual trilateral naval exercise “Maritime Security Belt 2025” started on March 10th, 2025, near Chabahar, Iran, encompassing anti-piracy, search-and-rescue, and naval combat exercises. The presence of Russia, China hosted by Iran in the strategically significant Gulf of Oman underscores their shared interest in countering Western influence and safeguarding themselves against an increasingly assertive…
Makhachkala Port and Beyond: How Dagestan Connects Iran and Russia in a Shifting Eurasian Landscape

The report outlines the strategic relationship between Dagestan and Iran, highlighting recent developments during a delegation’s visit aimed at enhancing trade and economic collaboration
Navigating Sanctions: Orenburg and Iran’s Economic Partnership

The report analyses recent economic and diplomatic activities involving the Orenburg Region of Russia and Iran, focusing on the deepening ties and joint cooperation opportunities. On February 21st-24th, 2025, a delegation representing Russia’s Oregon region, headed by Vice-Governor Ignat Petukhov, took part in the international EURASIA EXPO-2025 exhibition in Tehran.
Beyond Sanctions: Iran’s Complex Quest for Economic Stabilisation

This report examines Iran’s ongoing efforts to stabilise its economy in the face of severe currency fluctuations, inflation, and external economic pressures
Renewed Maximum Pressure: The US Returns to Confrontation with Iran

Persian Files ISSN 2975-0598 Volume 30 Issue 2 Author: Silvia Boltuc Executive Summary On February 4th, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed a National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM) restoring maximum pressure on the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Crypto Under Control: The Geopolitical Drivers of Iran’s New Regulation

This report assesses the key developments in Iran’s cryptocurrency policies, their implications for domestic and international actors, and the potential risks associated with these changes.
Water, Security, and Cooperation: Iran and Afghanistan Address the Helmand River Dispute

This report examines the geopolitical dynamics between Iran and Afghanistan, focusing on shared challenges and opportunities in the areas of water management, security, and migration. The ongoing dispute over the Helmand River’s water allocation represents a critical element of their relationship.
Iran and Tajikistan Forged a Strategic Alliance with 22 New Agreements

In January 2025, Iran and Tajikistan significantly deepened their bilateral ties by signing 22 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) during high-level meetings in Dushanbe. These agreements span multiple sectors, including trade, energy, infrastructure, cultural exchange, and security. This development represents a pivotal moment in their diplomatic relationship, marked by the restoration of trust and mutual interest…
Geopolitics and Risk Assessment of the Sirjan Special Economic Zone in Iran

The Sirjan Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a strategic hub for industrial, commercial, and transit activities in Iran. Established in the 1990s, it offers significant legal and economic advantages aimed at attracting domestic and foreign investment. Located near key transportation infrastructure, it provides a logistical nexus for trade between the Middle East, Central Asia, and…

Tag: Iran