Melih Kazdal

With its ancient history, deep-rooted culture and rich heritage, Iran has been an influential power in the Middle East. Hence, Iran has always wanted to be the dominant power in the region. During the Pahlavi dynasty, Iran emerged as a significant regional power with close relations with the United States. However, the 1979 Islamic Revolution changed Iran’s foreign and regional policy. The alliance with the U.S. turned into hostility, and a more aggressive policy toward neighbors was pursued. This has resulted in Iran becoming increasingly isolated, both internationally and regionally. Iran’s status internationally, as a pariah state, has precluded the utilization of conventional warfare tactics by the Iranian state in its dealing with powerful rivals. Consequently, Iran has adopted different means to become a regional hegemonic power.