Designing a pattern of territorial influence

Objective: The main aim of this study is to identify the components of territorial influence and to design a related model. Methodology: This research is applied in terms of its purpose and descriptive-analytical in nature and methodology. To identify the components of territorial influence, upper-level documents and library resources were utilized. Qualitative data analysis was carried out using thematic analysis (MaxQDA software), resulting in the identification of over 87 basic themes. Findings: The basic themes related to territorial influence were combined and summarized into 48 central themes, which were ultimately reduced to 9 main categories representing the key components. Finally, after obtaining validation from experts using a researcher-made questionnaire, a territorial influence model was presented. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that territorial influence constitutes a critical dimension of geopolitical power. The key components of territorial influence include: Possessing a superior transit position Being situated in a strategic communication hub Holding a larger territorial expanse for the influencing country Hydro-political relations and water control over neighboring countries More favorable climatic conditions relative to the influenced countries The presence of significant locations such as religious, pilgrimage, ethnic, and historical sites within the influencing country The number of neighboring countries Access to open seas and control over international straits.