The Internationalization of Deterrence: The Case Study of Iran's Biaxial Deterrence in the Middle East

ABSTRACT The concept of deterrence is central to both international relations and strategic studies, as it endeavors to establish peace through the “threat to reciprocal retaliation.” The Cold War era as the golden age of nuclear deterrence revealed that even the most powerful states are enthusiastic to transfer part of their strategic and military capabilities, such as nuclear weapons, to other states to countering potential threats. By presenting the concept of “internationalization of deterrence,” this article addresses the implementation of Iran's biaxial deterrence in the Middle East. Internationalizing deterrence entails the transfer of military and security capabilities from a deterrent power to allied and cooperative nations, thereby enhancing both the effectiveness and credibility of deterrence measures. The internationalization of deterrence encompasses a variety of strategies, including nuclear sharing, the creation of military bases in foreign countries, the backing of allied groups, and the overseas deployment of missiles. Biaxial deterrence is also an element of Iran's internationalized deterrence strategy, focusing on two interconnected dimensions: aligned groups—protégés—and advancing of their conventional weapons capabilities in the Middle East. Through internationalization of its conventional deterrence, Iran has sought to enhance its deterrent capabilities and credibility while minimizing costs and maximizing effectiveness.