Balancing East & West:
Iran’s strategy in new global order
By Asgar Ghahremanpour
Editor-in-chief
From Barry Buzan’s perspective, the Second Cold War represents a structural conflict — one that differs from direct military confrontation yet performs the same essential function: redefining the global balance of power. The new battleground has shifted from the ideological front lines of the twentieth century to the domains of technology, digital economy, energy, and geopolitical influence. In this context, nations capable of managing both hard and soft power simultaneously are the ones able to secure — and even expand — their national interests. The same principle applies to Iran.
Geographically, Iran occupies one of the most sensitive and strategic regions in the world — a crossroads where the interests of major powers and vital global energy routes converge. The Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf remain powerful levers in Tehran’s hands; if employed prudently, they can serve as instruments for safeguarding the nation’s interests. In an era marked by US–China competition, this geopolitical position has gained even greater strategic value, as both powers rely on the stability of the Persian Gulf for the security of global energy flows.
At the same time, Iran’s expanding ties with China and Russia present both opportunities and risks. The 25-year cooperation agreement with Beijing, for instance, offers prospects for investment and technology transfer — but it will truly serve Iran’s interests only if implemented transparently, with balance and rigorous oversight. Excessive dependence on any single foreign power — friend or otherwise — could undermine Iran’s strategic autonomy. Iran’s foreign policy will be most effective when it maintains a smart equilibrium between East and West: engaging with all, aligning with none.
A central pillar of Iran’s national interest is domestic stability. History shows that when Iran has faced internal economic strain or social division, external powers have gained leverage over its national decisions. Thus, an effective foreign policy in this new Cold War must align closely with economic and social strategy. Sustainable development, reducing oil dependency, and expanding advanced technologies are no longer economic luxuries — they are instruments of national security.
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