FROM THE ISLAMIC REVOLUTION TO THE NUCLEAR CRISIS: IRAN AND THE NEW GLOBAL CHALLENGES

Following the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Iran was transformed into a Shi’a Islamic state. Since then, it has sought to expand its role in the Middle East while weakening the in fluence of the United States and Western powers. To achieve these goals, Iran has adopted various strategies. After the Iran-Iraq War, Tehran resumed its nuclear program, which has repeatedly brought it into conflict with the international community. As a result, Iran has faced periodic sanctions, which have negatively impacted its political and economic development. Parallel to sanctions, there have been recurring negotiations between Iran and Western powers aimed at limiting the nuclear program—efforts that have yielded mixed results. Currently, Iran continues to construct new nuclear facilities. The latest flashpoint is the 12-day war between Iran and Israel, in which the United States participated in airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.