Proxy Wars in the Middle East: An Analysis of Iran's Strategic Engagement and its Regional Impact
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2026.10205Keywords:
Iran, Middle East, Proxy War, Geopolitics, Hegemony, Security Dilemma, Regional Stability.Abstract
Objectives: This study provides a comprehensive analysis of Iran's influence in the Middle East, with a focus on the war in Gaza. It examines Iran’s role in shaping the evolving regional landscape by analyzing geopolitical dynamics, historical contexts, and current events. The study also explores proxy warfare; particularly how ideational factors influence state behavior in asymmetric conflicts.
Methods: An interdisciplinary approach is employed, incorporating reviews of diplomatic discourse, official statements, and media narratives. This allows for a nuanced analysis of Iran’s diplomatic, economic, and military strategies, as well as its relationships with proxy actors.
Results: The findings indicate that Iran’s pursuit of regional hegemony is driven by ideological, economic, and strategic factors. Its network of proxies enables it to exert significant influence while avoiding direct conflict. The study highlights the security dilemma in the Middle East resulting from Iran’s expanding military capabilities and proxy warfare.
Conclusion: Proxy warfare has become a cornerstone of Iran’s power projection in the Middle East, with significant implications for regional security. Iran’s strategy has contributed to destruction and fragmentation across the region. The study calls for concerted efforts to contain Iran’s influence to foster a more stable Middle East. While the region’s future remains uncertain, diplomatic engagement, conflict resolution, and socio-economic development are essential for long-term stability.
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