Crisis Studies of the Islamic World

Crisis Studies of the Islamic World

The Pathology of Iran’s Interaction with Shia Parties in Iraq (2003–2021): A Constructivist Analysis of the Iran–Saudi Rivalry

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
mohammad bagher hakim 1
gharine keshishiiansiraki 2
mohammadreza ghaedi 3
1 PhD Student, Department of International Relations, Kish International Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kish Island, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Political Science and International Relations, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
3 Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Shi. C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
10.27834/CSIW.2501.1500.1.36.3
Abstract
This research examines the interaction between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Iraqi Shia parties in the period from 2003 to 2021 and analyzes the role of these interactions in the formation and strengthening of the Shiite identity in Iraq with a constructivist approach. During this period, Iran has tried to counter the influence of other powers, especially Saudi Arabia, while consolidating its influence by providing military, economic, and ideological support to Iraqi Shiite parties to limit Iran's influence and change the balance of power in its favor. This competition between Iran and Saudi Arabia has led to the deepening of religious divisions in Iraq and divergence among the Shia parties, which itself has caused challenges in the political and security stability of Iraq. The research results show that Iran's interactions with Shiite parties have helped to strengthen religious identity and increase convergence between Iran and Iraq. But at the same time, the rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has caused the spread of sectarian tensions and negative effects on the internal unity of Iraq.
Keywords
Shia parties
divergence
religious identity
constructivist approach
regional interactions
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Crisis Studies of the Islamic World
Volume 12, Issue 1 - Serial Number 36
Spring Quarterly
Winter 2025
Pages 54-82

  • Receive Date 05 February 2025
  • Revise Date 27 February 2025
  • Accept Date 02 March 2025