The International Institute for Iranian Studies (Rasanah) has issued the Iran Case File (ICF) for November-December 2023. The file provides readers in general and researchers in particular with an in-depth analysis and overview of Iran’s variant interactions and affairs. The file is divided into three parts main parts: Developments in Iran’s Internal Affairs, Iran-Arab Interactions and Iran’s Relations With Regional and International Powers.
Iran experienced various internal changes at the political, economic, and ideological levels. Rasanah research team discussed these developments covering the following prominent topics: Suspect Tea Deal Exposes Graft Cases Worth Billions of Dollars; Economic Performance in 2023: Economic Crises and Livelihood Challenges; Iranian Popular Discontent With the Increasing Number of Afghan Migrants and the Hawza and the Question of Palestine: Legitimacy at Home, Pragmatism Abroad
During November and December 2023, significant developments were observed in Iran’s relations with some Arab countries, specifically the Gulf nations and Syria. Notable events during this period include Russia’s proposal to bring the UAE islands issue to the International Court of Justice for resolution based on international law. Additionally, pro-Iran militias continued to launch attacks on American targets in Iraq, while an IRGC commander was killed in Syria. The Syria-Jordan borders also experienced renewed tensions. These developments were examined as follows: Iran’s Relations With the Gulf States and Great Powers, the Reemergence of Tensions Following Militia Attacks on US Targets in Iraq and the Implications of Israel’s War on Gaza for the Syrian Landscape
The relationship between Iran and the United States has experienced a significant increase in tension, particularly with Israel’s war on Gaza. This tension has been further exacerbated by the United States’ renewed focus on the Middle East, including strategic shifts and troop deployment in the region. Iran is concerned about the US presence in the region, viewing it as a potential threat to its future influence.
