WASHINGTON D.C.: Since the demise of the Soviet Union, the Islamic Republic of Iran has aggressively fostered a new set of regional alliances with Muslim neighbors, especially along its 1,400 kilometer northern border. In stark contrast to the theocracy’s first decade, today the ruling clergy’s focus is not on exporting Islamic zealotry or political revolution. The primary goals are now economic, reflecting growing pressures and priorities inside Iran as well as the shifting measure of power worldwide.
WASHINGTON D.C.: Since the demise of the Soviet Union, the Islamic Republic of Iran has aggressively fostered a new set of regional alliances with Muslim neighbors, especially along its 1,400 kilometer northern border. In stark contrast to the theocracy’s first decade, today the ruling clergy’s focus is not on exporting Islamic zealotry or political revolution. The primary goals are now economic, reflecting growing pressures and priorities inside Iran as well as the shifting measure of power worldwide.