Iran

The US-Iranian relationship has experienced significant challenges over the past forty years. The lack of diplomatic relations, changes in both the US and Iranian administrations, repeated US military interventions in the region as well as Iran’s support for militant groups and increasingly harsh rhetoric on both sides have further undermined chances for reconciliation. Through a balanced approach of engagement and containment, there is a need to push back against Iranian intervention while promoting US interests, regional conflict resolution, and the well-being of the Iranian people.

Content

MENASource

Nov 18, 2025

The Trump-MBS meeting should center on Iran nuclear strategy

By Danny Citrinowicz  

The Saudi crown prince has significant incentive to raise the need to renew Iran nuclear negotiations in his meeting with the US president.

Iran Middle East

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

Taylor joins Al-Taghier to discuss the impact of Iranian factions on the US-Iraq partnership

By Atlantic Council

Arabic Iran

Inflection Points

Oct 27, 2025

Trump’s place in history depends on his approach to the CRINK

By Frederick Kempe

After a string of foreign policy wins, Trump's more significant challenge lies ahead: countering the bloc of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

China Iran

MENASource

Oct 24, 2025

‘Snapback’ sanctions are deepening the Iran-Russia alignment

By Giorgio Cafiero

United by a desire to counter US influence, Iran and Russia are poised to deepen their bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

Financial Sanctions and Economic Coercion Iran

Russia Tomorrow

Oct 23, 2025

The CRINK: Inside the new bloc supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine

By Angela Stent

The latest report in the Atlantic Council's Russia Tomorrow series details how Russia’s war against Ukraine has brought together a new set of partners--united not by shared values, but by shared grievances--on the international stage: China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

China Europe & Eurasia

MENASource

Oct 20, 2025

Will the US achieve a ‘big, beautiful’ Iran deal or stall in homeostasis?

By Stefanie Hausheer Ali and Cranston Kline

The Gaza cease-fire showcased how when the US president gets personally involved, the seemingly impossible can become possible.

Iran Israel

MENASource

Sep 23, 2025

A geography of protest: Inside the rise of Iran’s minority factor

By Mohammed A. Salih

From the death of Mahsa Jina Amini to the Twelve Day War, the ethnic question has emerged as a significant dimension of Iran’s politics.

Civil Society Iran

MENASource

Sep 23, 2025

Iran’s minorities and policy complexity: A look at two communities

By David Sklar

Iran plays a significant role in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Policymakers should develop a sober, accurate mapping of its population.

Civil Society Iran

Strategic Litigation

Sep 22, 2025

Strategic Litigation Quarterly Newsletter: Forging pathways to lasting justice

By Strategic Litigation Project

The latest updates on the Strategic Litigation Project's work advancing human rights and accountability.

Afghanistan China

MENASource

Sep 19, 2025

Snapback sanctions threaten to further derail Iran nuclear deal hopes

By Rob Macaire

Now would be the best time for the West to negotiate a deal with Iran—but snapback sanctions threaten a derailing into further confrontation.

Financial Sanctions and Economic Coercion Iran

Experts

Events