Syria and Iran: Diplomatic Alliance and Power Politics in the Middle East

(Paperback)

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The alliance between Syria and Iran has proved to be an enduring feature on the political landscape of the Middle East. Moreover, since its inception after the Iranian Revolution, it has had a significant impact in terms of moulding events and bringing about major changes in this troubled region. The study demonstrates that, contrary to prevailing views, the alliance between the two states has been essentially defensive in nature. It emerged in response to a series of events and developments, most notably, the Iraqi invasion of Iran in 1980, the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982 and US adventurism in the Middle East. The book traces the critical stages in the evolution and consolidation of the alliance in the 1980s, and offers explanations for its longevity into the 21st century.

Reviews

'No topic is more central to the current set of conflicts in the Middle East, and their resolution, diplomatic or military, than is the relationship between Syria and Iran. While this alliance is, on both sides, informal and calculated, it has endured over two decades of war, in Lebanon, Kuwait, Iraq and Palestine and defied the efforts of other states, regional and global, to disrupt it. Jubin Goodarzi's analysis is the most informed yet to appear on the Tehran-Damascus axis. It should be indispensable reading for all those now engaged in seeking to understand, or resolve, the imbroglio that is the Middle East today.' - Professor Fred Halliday, FBA, author The Middle East in International Relations; 'Goodarzi's book is commendable for adding to the knowledge base of the Middle East region's most enduring partnership.' - Anoush Ehteshami, THE ROYAL SOCIETY FOR ASIAN AFFAIRS

Author Bio

Jubin M. Goodarzi is Professor of International Relations at Webster University Geneva, and has worked as a Middle East Affairs analyst with a number of US and UK research institutes and with the United Nations. He holds a doctorate in International Relations from the London School of Economics.