The 21st issue of the Journal for Iranian Studies (JIS), featuring seven research articles, explores critical regional issues, from Saudi Arabia’s AI-driven transformation to Iran’s energy, military and diplomatic policies, along with historical and philosophical reflections. Authored by distinguished researchers, these studies highlight the role of technology, geopolitics and ideology in shaping the world we live in today.
Dr. Mohammed al-Qadi, a researcher in Gulf affairs and regional security, explores Saudi Arabia’s quest to become a global AI leader under Vision 2030. The kingdom is deploying AI in healthcare, energy and governance to drive economic diversification and regional influence. Despite the hurdles, Qadi underscores Saudi Arabia’s strategic investments, positioning it competitively in the global AI race.
Dr. Umud Shokri, an energy strategist and senior visiting fellow at George Mason University, analyzes Iran’s energy crisis. Despite the country’s vast oil and gas reserves, mismanagement, sanctions and IRGC-linked corruption have led to energy blackouts and economic deterioration in Iran. Shokri argues that subsidized energy prices have exacerbated the energy crisis, while urgent reforms are absent.
Dr. Mohammed Alsenosy, a lecturer at Suez Canal University, examines Iran’s calculated escalation against Israel. Economic sanctions force Iran to rely on proxies, minimizing costs while pursuing geopolitical goals. Alsenosy highlights that prolonged escalation or open war with Israel would further damage Iran’s shattered economy, shifting resources from critical sectors and infrastructure, risking social unrest.
Dr. Fathi Boularas, from Algeria’s National School of Political Science, reviews Hezbollah’s vulnerabilities exposed by Israel’s intelligence post-2006. Boularas argues that Hezbollah’s Syrian involvement and technological weaknesses enabled Israel to dismantle the group’s command structure, weakening Iran’s proxy strategy and shifting regional deterrence in its favor.
Sarah Ewees Ameen, a political researcher in regional security, analyzes Iran’s diplomatic outreach to Afghanistan under President Pezeshkian. Building on Raisi’s “neighborhood policy,” Ameen notes that Iran has been focusing on dialogue to navigate sanctions and regional tensions, despite suffering longstanding tensions like water disputes.
Dr. Manal Awad al-Murayteb, associate professor at King Abdulaziz University and Hind Ali al-Muzayni, a lecturer at Umm Al-Qura University, comprehensively review the 1813 Treaty of Gulistan, highlighting how Russia’s territorial gains and trade privileges reshaped Iran’s sovereignty, influencing its modern identity.
Fatma Badran, a PhD candidate at Al Azhar University, explores Iran’s philosophical tensions surrounding modernity. Badran argues that Wilayat al-Faqih resists modernity, clashing with youth and women who embrace modern ideals, while also challenging Iran’s religious narrative.
In our 21st issue, the seven research articles underscore how the region is navigating a complex interplay of innovation, geopolitical clashes, resource crises and ideological disputes. We welcome research proposals from specialists in Iranian affairs covering all fields (politics, security, military, economy or culture) which can be submitted to our JIS email: jis@rasanahiiis.com.
