Russia’s Balancing Behavior in Middle East: Case Study of Iran and Saudi Arabia (2012-2018)
Subject Areas : International Relations
1 - Associate Professor at the Allameh Tabatabaei University
Keywords: Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Middle East, Balancing Behavior,
Abstract :
Abstract Considering the first signs of shaping of a new regional order in the Middle East since 2011, Russia has taken new approaches toward this critical region. The approaches which show regaining Moscow’s role in this area. However, due to the new complexities, the current Middle East is basically different to the past. The states are more independent and inter-connections in various areas has led to shaping complicated fronts; that each of them requires particular patterns of relations between the players. These complexities caused emergence of an empirical balancing behavior by Moscow toward regional states. The behavior based on specific approaches such as direct military intervention, counter terrorism, shaping anti-West coalitions and following up international energy strategies. The main components of Russia's balancing behavior can be summarized in emphasis on functional dimensions, playing with all state actors, task division without confrontation and interaction with non-state actors. This approach has been adopted Russia’s relations with Islamic Republic of Iran and Saudi Arabia, as two key regional actors with opposite and sometimes contradictory interests, and has resulted in well and balanced relations with the two countries.
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