Studies in Iranian Politics

This book offers a critical deconstruction of radicalism as a political category and through this analytical approach seeks to interpret and assess the presidencies of the former Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad. It contextualizes radicalism within a broader framework of Western-derived political categories, which are too frequently used to simplify the complexities of Iran's domestic political landscape, generally reducing any comprehensive and objective understanding of Iranian politics. Since the term radicalism is often misrepresented and misused in readings of contemporary Iran, this study examines several analogous Persian and English labels, exploring their different meanings, significances, and varied applications, in order to challenge any fixed and universal interpretations of radicalism as a concept. The political experience of Mahmud Ahmadinejad, who has been widely perceived as a radical politician, provides an ideal case study in this regard, offering valuable insight into how best to frame and interpret radicalism in post-revolutionary Iran. This book will be of particular interest to both scholars and students of Iranian Studies, but also to more general readers who are broadly interested in Middle Eastern studies, political science, and comparative politics.

This book clarifies Khomeini’s views on nationalism, sectarianism, and peace and war by putting the Iran-Iraq war at center of understanding of Khomeini’s ideology. Moreover, by making comparisons between Khomeini’s thoughts before and after the revolution with his words during the Iran-Iraq war, this book helps us see how his discourse during the conflict was shaped by such thoughts. Also, such a comparison helps us understand the complexities of Khomeini’s doctrines and their evolvements. Additionally, by offering a unique set of methodological tools, this book introduces a new way to study political leaders in Iran and other parts of the Middle East.

This book delves deep into the complex dynamics surrounding the Iran nuclear deal and its subsequent fracture. In a post-2018 world, following the United States’ withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement, this work dissects the ramifications of this geopolitical shift, particularly with respect to Iran's nuclear ambitions.

The book's central premise revolves around the idea that Iran's pursuit of nuclear capabilities is intricately tied to its enduring conflicts with Iraq, Israel, and the United States. It argues that the nuclear deal had the potential to quell these conflicts, particularly the long-standing rivalry between Iran and the U. S., thus reshaping Iran's relationships in the Middle East. However, with the U. S. exit from the agreement and its accusations of Iranian sponsorship of terrorism, Iran now perceives a heightened threat, potentially leading it to consider nuclear weapons as a deterrent against a potential war with the U. S.

The book challenges conventional international relations paradigms with regards to Iran: realism, which typically predicts all conflicting states will seek nuclear weapons regardless of cooperative arrangements, is shown to ignore the nuanced connection between cooperation and proliferation propensity; and liberalism's emphasis on cooperation is critiqued in this case for overlooking the negative consequences of failed cooperative endeavours. The book highlights the importance of trust and compliance in the success of cooperative agreements, as well as the adverse effects of their breakdown.

The work contributes significantly to our understanding of international relations in the Middle East. It draws on an extensive examination of prior research while presenting novel theoretical insights. The detailed case study of Iran's nuclear aspirations before, during, and after the nuclear deal serves as a compelling application of the theoretical framework.

This book is a personal narrative chronicling the life and experiences of Shireen Hunter, an Iranian woman who came of age during a transformative era in Iran’s history. It begins by spanning the tumultuous aftermath of World War II to the pivotal 1979 revolution, providing a poignant account of the profound impact of these historical events on the author’s life.

The book delves into the multifaceted consequences of the reformist period that began in the 1960s. They enabled Shireen to enter the diplomatic service, but also cast a shadow of adversity over her family. Ultimately, the reforms contributed to internal divisions that ignited the 1979 revolution.

The book then explores Shireen’s immigrant experience in the USA, where she assumed the role of an “ethnic expert” in the volatile arena of Middle East politics. It candidly recounts challenges she faced in maintaining intellectual integrity while earning a livelihood, highlighting the precariousness of being on the right side of controversial issues.

The book does not offer definitive solutions to specific problems. Yet it resonates with contemporary international security and developmental challenges and offers insights that remain relevant in today’s complex global landscape.

With its multifaceted narrative encompassing Iran’s social and political history, women’s studies, immigrant experiences, and a personal perspective on critical junctures in U. S.-Iranian relations, this book appeals to a diverse readership. It provides a unique window into “lived” experiences and analytical reflections of an individual who has traversed the intersections of history, identity, and diplomacy, offering invaluable insights into both past and present.