Iran in the Global Context: Why the World Needs to Pay Attention
Iran remains a critical player in the Middle East and on the global stage today. Its strategic location and vast oil reserves, coupled with its political and religious influence, make it a nation with significant implications for regional and global security, diplomacy, and economics. Unfortunately, many people in the West are unfamiliar with the country, only hearing about it in the context of nuclear proliferation or as part of an «axis of evil.» Here are several reasons why the world needs to pay attention to Iran and what’s happening there.
Iran’s Strategic Role in the Middle East
Iran lies in the heart of the Middle East, bordering several countries that have faced ongoing conflicts or political crises. Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan continue to struggle with destabilizing political conditions, sectarian violence, and extremist groups. Iran’s involvement in these conflicts is complex and multi-faceted.
Iran is a Shia-majority country, whereas Iraq is predominantly Sunni. The regional rivalry between these sects, as well as the sectarian tensions within Iraq itself, have contributed to ongoing violence since the toppling of Saddam Hussein. Iran has been accused of fueling some of the sectarian violence in Iraq, including providing support to Shia militias.
Iran’s involvement in Syria is also multi-dimensional. Iran has a close relationship with the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad, which is fighting multiple factions in an ongoing civil war. Iran has provided military support to Assad, including sending military advisors and volunteers from its own Revolutionary Guard Corps. Hezbollah, a Lebanese-based militant group with close ties to Iran, is also fighting alongside the Syrian army.
Finally, Iran is a neighbor to Afghanistan, where the Taliban continues to pose a significant threat to the Afghan state and international peacekeeping forces. Iran has played a role in the search for a political settlement in Afghanistan, hosting talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government in 2019.
Nuclear Deal and Sanctions
One of the reasons Iran receives media attention is its nuclear program. Iran’s nuclear ambitions have been a concern for the international community for over a decade. The country has been subjected to numerous rounds of economic sanctions over the years to put pressure on its government to limit its nuclear program.
In 2015, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly referred to as the Iran nuclear deal, was reached between Iran and six world powers. The deal aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear activities in return for lifting some of the economic sanctions facing the country. However, in May 2018, the United States withdrew from the deal, raising tensions between Iran and other nations. The current situation regarding Iran’s nuclear program remains tense, with both the US and Israel maintaining pressure on the international community to enforce sanctions.
Human Rights Concerns
Iran has a poor human rights record. Despite being one of the most educated societies in the Middle East, the Iranian government restricts freedom of speech, press, assembly, and religion. The government also inflicts severe punishment for a range of crimes, including drug offenses, theft, and blasphemy, often with little evidence.
Iran has the highest number of executions per capita globally. Public hangings are common, and Iran frequently applies the death penalty to minors, drug addicts, and members of ethnic and religious minorities. Amnesty International reports that torture and cruel punishments are frequently used, and human rights activists and journalists face detention, torture, and even execution.
Economic Opportunities
Iran is one of the world’s largest oil-producing countries, with vast energy reserves that are essential to the global economy. Before sanctions were imposed on Iran, the country’s oil and gas sector was responsible for up to 70% of its revenue. A relaxation of the sanctions could see Iran become a major player in the global energy market and a site of significant investment and economic growth.
In addition to energy, Iran has a well-educated population and a strong industrial sector. It has the potential to become a significant market for international businesses and entrepreneurs alike as global economic relations improve.
Cultural Significance
Iran has a rich cultural heritage, including one of the world’s oldest civilizations, which dates back thousands of years. Iranian poetry, music, and art are integral parts of world culture, and the country’s contribution to literature and the arts is widely celebrated. Iranian cinema is widely recognized as one of the most influential in the Middle East and has garnered international acclaim.
Iran is also home to some of the world’s most significant architectural landmarks, such as Persepolis, Naqsh-e Jahan Square, and Isfahan’s Imam Mosque. These landmarks draw significant tourist attention, contributing billions of dollars to the Iranian economy.
How to Engage With Iran?
Engaging with Iran is complex, given the country’s history of political rivalry, nuclear proliferation concerns, and human rights abuses. However, building bridges and engaging with Iran is essential for creating a more stable and prosperous region.
One vital way to engage with Iran is through diplomatic channels. The US has been limited by its withdrawal from the JCPOA, but European nations and regional actors like China and Russia have a vital role to play in keeping communication open with Iran. The European Union has offered a mechanism to bypass US sanctions, called the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges (INSTEX), which allows for the continuation of some trade relations between European nations and Iran.
Human rights organizations and activists can keep pressuring the Iranian government to reduce the number of executions and improve freedom of speech and assembly. They can also raise awareness of the political prisoners currently held in Iran and advocate for their release.
Finally, entrepreneurs and businesses from around the world can contribute to strengthening Iran’s economy and promoting global trade. Iran has the potential to be a significant market with potential opportunities for investment and partnerships.
Conclusion
Iran remains a complex country that has significant implications for regional and global security, economics, and culture. Although Iran is often portrayed negatively in Western media, there is much that individuals and nations can do to support engagement, human rights, and trade relations with the country. Through increased dialog and diplomacy, community engagement, and international development, we can work to reduce tensions and promote stability in Iran and the wider region.
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