Geopolitical Rivalry of Great Powers with Special Reference to Iran and Israel

Read full text
Authors: Vladan M. MIRKOVIĆ
Cited by: 0

Abstract

After World War II, the United States established a geographical ring, extending from Scandinavia to the Far East, aiming to prevent any land power from reaching the high seas and challenging its global dominance. In 1979, Iran terminated its strategic partnership with the United States, creating an opening for the land powers to reach the high seas. This shift prompted the United States to influence regime change in Iran. However, this interest stands in conflict with the strategic objectives of Russia and the People’s Republic of China. Their shared interest lies in maintaining stability in Iran and preserving the current regime, which warrants them access to the high seas and ensures energy security. In order to pursue its geopolitical objectives within the existing balance of power among the three major powers, the United States is unwilling to engage in a full-scale war with Iran but employs Israel for proxy wars instead, justifying those conflicts on the grounds of the perceived threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program. This thesis was tested in the research, with the most recent conflict between Iran and Israel serving as evidence in favor of the thesis.

Fields of Study & Subjects

International Relations and Foreign Policy European and Russian Geopolitical Military Strategies Middle East Politics and Society

Publication details

Journal / source
BULLETIN OF CAROL I NATIONAL DEFENCE UNIVERSITY
Volume
14
Issue
4
Pages
207–223
Publication date
19 January 2026
Language
EN