The book 'Iran in an Emerging New World Order' by Ali Fathollah-Nejad critically examines Iran's foreign policy and international relations from the post-9/11 era to the rise of Rouhani in late 2014. It explores Iran's geopolitical imaginations, its relations with non-Western great powers, and critiques the 'Rouhani doctrine.' The book provides a nuanced analysis of Iran's policy-making process, drawing on extensive primary and secondary sources. It offers insights into the domestic, regional, and international dimensions that shape Iran's foreign policy, making it a valuable resource for understanding Iran's role in the evolving global order.

On January 3, twin blasts in Kerman, Iran, killed over 90 people near a ceremony for Gen. Qasem Soleimani. The Islamic State claimed responsibility, but Iran blamed Israel and the U.S., citing little evidence. Israel typically targets Iranian state and military infrastructure, not civilians. The Islamic State's claim was disputed by Iran's Tasnim News Agency, suggesting Israeli involvement. Iran's missile attacks on neighboring regions post-incident were seen as a response to internal and external legitimacy pressures. The U.S. dismissed involvement claims, and the EU expressed solidarity with Iran. The Islamic Republic's narrative is seen as a strategy to maintain legitimacy and unity amid skepticism from Iranian society.

Iran's recent elections witnessed historically low voter turnout, reflecting widespread disillusionment with the political system. Official figures report a 41% turnout, but actual participation may be significantly lower due to manipulation and coercion. The reformist faction, once a critical voice within the regime, has lost influence and credibility, as evidenced by their strategic withdrawal from the elections. The elections have significant political, economic, and international implications, highlighting a legitimacy crisis for the Islamic Republic. The results suggest a shift towards more radical elements within the political landscape, although the Parliament's influence on major policy decisions remains limited. The Supreme Leader and the IRGC continue to hold substantial control over Iran's political direction.

Increasing public discontent in Iran over the country's involvement in Syria is highlighted through recent protests and public statements. Key figures like former President Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani and former Tehran Mayor Gholam Hossein Karbaschi have openly criticized the intervention. The economic and human costs of the conflict are becoming more apparent, leading to growing calls for a diplomatic rather than military approach. The sentiment among Iranians is that resources spent on the Syrian war should be redirected to address domestic needs, with slogans like 'Leave Syria Alone!' gaining traction. The article underscores the challenges faced by the Iranian regime in justifying its foreign policy amid rising domestic unrest.

Iran faces challenges in justifying its extensive military intervention in Syria to its citizens. Initially limited to military advisors, Iran's involvement has expanded to leading Shiite militias. The rise of ISIS in 2014 provided a pretext for Iran's increased military presence under the guise of fighting terrorism. Despite public narratives of combating terrorism and protecting Shiite shrines, the Iranian regime has kept the true costs and casualties of the intervention hidden. The economic burden and secretive nature of the operations have led to growing domestic discontent. The coordinated military efforts with Russia have helped sustain the Assad regime, but the financial and human costs have strained Iran's resources. The regime's narrative of victory over ISIS is seen as an attempt to justify the prolonged and costly intervention.

The article discusses the declining support for Iran's regime, highlighted by the historically low voter turnout in recent elections. Despite official claims of high participation, actual figures suggest widespread disillusionment. The regime's legitimacy is further eroded by internal corruption, economic struggles, and a disconnect between its rhetoric and actions. The growing public dissatisfaction, evidenced by protests and election boycotts, poses a significant challenge to the regime's stability. The West faces the task of interpreting these signals and adjusting its Iran policy accordingly.

The article discusses the recent protests in Iran triggered by a significant increase in fuel prices, which have exacerbated the economic hardships faced by many Iranians. It highlights the widespread discontent with the government's handling of the economy, the lack of trust in promises of compensation, and the broader socio-economic issues that have fueled the unrest. The piece also draws parallels with the protests of 2017-2018, noting both similarities and differences in scale and intensity. The government's response, including violent suppression and internet shutdowns, is critiqued, and the article suggests that the ongoing economic and social grievances will likely lead to further unrest.

The March 2023 agreement between Iran and Saudi Arabia, brokered by China, signifies shifting regional and global dynamics, highlighting Beijing's rising influence. The deal allows Iran to divert attention from internal unrest and international isolation while portraying it as a decline in U.S. power. However, it creates a dilemma in Iran's foreign policy between its regional 'Axis of Resistance' and global 'Look East' strategies. Despite support from the Raisi administration and state media, key Iranian decision-makers have downplayed the agreement's significance. The deal's success hinges on China's influence, as Iran's support for regional militias could strain relations with Beijing. The agreement underscores an unstable equilibrium in Iran's foreign policy, balancing regional ambitions with ties to non-Western powers.

The formation of an unofficial Iran opposition coalition, including prominent figures like Reza Pahlavi, Masih Alinejad, and Shirin Ebadi, marks a significant step towards unifying the Iranian diaspora to support the revolutionary movement in Iran. The coalition aims to pressure Western governments to isolate the Islamic Republic and support democratic change. However, the coalition faces challenges in representing the working class and integrating diverse social groups. The coalition members emphasize unity against the Islamic Republic, the creation of a secular democracy, and the importance of including workers' interests in their strategy.

The Islamic Republic of Iran faces its most serious protests since its inception, sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini. This paper examines the socio-economic, political, and ecological crises in Iran, alongside gender discrimination issues. It calls for a paradigm shift in the EU's approach to Iran, considering the changing dynamics post-2015 JCPOA and the 2022 protests. The paper reviews Iran's foreign and nuclear strategy and critiques the EU's Iran policy, recommending a balanced stance between belligerence and appeasement.