Iran’s New Grand Strategy
Iran's recent military conflicts have led to significant changes within its leadership and strategic approach. Despite initial expectations of a regime collapse, the Islamic Republic has adapted and consolidated its power, emerging with a new generation of leaders. This transformation is expected to reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East for years to come.
- ▪The U.S.-Israeli war on Iran began in February 2026, initially appearing to weaken the Islamic Republic.
- ▪Contrary to expectations, the war did not lead to regime collapse but instead facilitated a leadership transition within Iran.
- ▪A new generation of leaders, shaped by their experiences during the Iran-Iraq War, is now redefining Iran's strategic outlook.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Iran’s New Grand StrategyHow a Remade Islamic Republic Will Reshape the Middle East Narges Bajoghli and Vali Nasr July/August 2026 Published on June 3, 2026 Illustration by Michaela Staton; Photo Source: Reuters. Share & Download Print Subscribe to unlock this feature or Sign in. Save Sign in and save to read later Close Share Iran’s New Grand Strategy How a Remade Islamic Republic Will Reshape the Middle East Narges Bajoghli and Vali Nasr July/August 2026 Share in email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Copy Link Copied Article link: https://www.foreignaffairs.com/iran/irans-new-grand-strategyhttps://www.foreignaffairs.com/iran/irans-new-grand-strategy Copy Gift Link Copied This is a subscriber-only feature. Subscribe now or Sign in.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Foreign Affairs.