Iran today stands at a crossroads, acting as both a stabilising and destabilising force in one of the world’s most volatile regions. Its influence extends through a network of allies and proxies, from Hezbollah in Lebanon to the Houthis in Yemen, while its diplomatic and strategic moves continue to draw global attention.

In this second part of our two-part series on Iran, we examine the country’s foreign relations and regional strategy. We look at Tehran’s rapprochement with Saudi Arabia in 2023, its growing partnerships with China and Russia, and the ongoing tensions with the United States following the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal. We also explore how India navigates its ties with Iran, balancing economic engagement with broader regional considerations.

This episode unpacks how Tehran’s alliances, rivalries, and strategic calculations shape West Asia and beyond, asking critical questions about the sustainability of its partnerships and the long-term implications for regional and global stability.

Expert: Stanly Johny, International Affairs Editor, The Hindu.

Video: Shivaraj S

Research, Editing and Production: Sharmada Venkatasubramanian

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