Drivers and Outcomes of Convergence and Divergence in Iran–Turkey Relations under the Shadow of Israel's Presence in the Middle East in the New Millennium

Jamshidi, Mohsen; Salehyan, Tajdin; Bahrami Moghadam, Sajad

Drivers and Outcomes of Convergence and Divergence in Iran–Turkey Relations under the Shadow of Israel's Presence in the Middle East in the New Millennium

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Mohsen Jamshidi ¹

Tajdin Salehyan ²

Sajad Bahrami Moghadam ³

¹ Political researcher and PhD student in Political Science (Iranian Issues), Kermanshah Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah, Iran.

² PhD in International Relations, Researcher and Lecturer, Department of Middle East and North African Studies, University of Ilam, Ilam, Iran.

³ Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.

Abstract

One of the key issues that has attracted the attention of scholars of the international system, particularly from the perspective of strategic studies, is the nature of the relationship between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Turkey in the context of Israel’s presence in the region. Accordingly, this study addresses the following research question: What are the drivers and consequences of convergence and divergence in the relationship between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Turkey? The study argues that the dynamics of this relationship, shaped by Israel’s regional presence, are influenced by four principal factors: geopolitical, geostrategic, geoeconomic, and geocultural. Employing a qualitative research design and a descriptive–analytical approach, this applied study examines the regional dimensions of Iran–Turkey relations. The findings indicate that the relationship between the two countries is characterized by a complex interplay of cooperation and competition, shaped by geopolitical considerations, the doctrine of strategic depth, identity-based resources, and evolving regional dynamics. These factors have generated both significant opportunities for cooperation and persistent challenges to bilateral relations.

Keywords

Middle East

Convergence

Divergence

Regional Hegemony

Role Model