Intellectual foundations of ...
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The principle does not preclude engagement with major powers; rather, it underscores that Iran’s foreign relations should not become politically or economically dependent on them. From this standpoint, expanding ties with neighboring countries, the Islamic world, Asia, Africa, and emerging powers can be understood as part of a broader strategy aimed at diversifying foreign partnerships and reducing vulnerability to unilateral pressure.
Within his intellectual framework, national power is not confined to military capabilities alone. Rather, successful diplomacy is seen as dependent upon internal strength. Scientific advancement, technological development, stronger defense capabilities, economic growth, a resilient economy, and greater social capital are all regarded as integral components of national power. In essence, foreign policy that is not backed by domestic capabilities lacks the capacity to effectively defend the country's interests.
The value-based and civilizational dimension also represents a distinctive feature of this approach. Unlike certain realist theories of international relations, which view foreign policy solely as an arena of power competition, Ayatollah Khamenei’s political thought assigns significant importance to identity and ethical considerations. Support for the Palestinian people, advocacy for the oppressed, backing the Resistance Front, and emphasizing the solidarity of the Islamic Ummah are all understood within this framework. From this perspective, such policies are grounded not only in religious convictions but are also considered capable of enhancing the Islamic Republic’s strategic depth and strengthening regional security.
Recent developments, particularly over the past year, have underscored the relevance of his perspective on the structural transformation of the international system and the emergence of a multipolar world order. The global distribution of power is gradually shifting, while new actors—including the Islamic Republic of Iran—are coming to the fore on the international stage. Consequently, expanding cooperation with emerging powers, maintaining an active presence in regional and international organizations, and strengthening relations with neighboring countries are regarded as components of a broader strategy to enhance Iran’s role and influence in the international arena. At the same time, he consistently emphasized the importance of accurately understanding global developments, avoiding excessive optimism or pessimism, and pursuing a prudent and intelligent diplomacy.
Overall, late Ayatollah Khamenei’s foreign policy approach can be regarded as a model shaped by religious principles, strategic calculation, and political realism. Concepts such as dignity, wisdom, and expediency; the emphasis on independence and the rejection of domination; the strengthening of domestic capabilities; support for the Resistance Front; and close attention to the evolving global order together constitute the principal elements of this progressive intellectual framework. Over the past decades, these principles have exerted a significant influence on the direction of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s foreign policy and continue to serve as one of the principal frameworks for analyzing the country's strategic decisions on the international stage.