RAND think tank's proposed strategies for the regional policies of the Islamic Republic of Iran (based on the theory of rational decision-making for the period from 2021 to 2023)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 f

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Islamic Azad University, Shahrood Branch, Semnan, Iran

3 d

Abstract

Think tanks assist U.S. foreign policy by producing policy reports, academic papers, books, and providing consultations to policymakers. The United States views the Islamic Republic of Iran as an obstacle to its national interests in the West Asia region. American think tanks propose various strategies to U.S. foreign policy to contain Iran’s influence. The RAND Corporation, due to its interaction with the U.S. military, security, and intelligence structures, its focus on the issue of Iran as part of enemy-building strategies, and its lobbying and influence in Congress and U.S. executive bodies, is recognized as one of the most prestigious think tanks in studying the policies of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The main research question is: what strategies did RAND propose for confronting Iran during the period from 2021 to 2023? This study, using the theoretical framework of rational decision-making and thematic analysis, has analyzed RAND's reports. The data were extracted and analyzed using MAXQDA software. Six main themes were identified in this research, which include military deterrence, economic sanctions, strengthening regional alliances, supporting internal opposition, using proxy forces, and diplomatic engagement. The main findings show that RAND recommends a combination of military, economic, and political strategies to counter Iran’s influence. The results of this study indicate that RAND's proposed policies are formulated based on the rational decision-making model. These findings can lead to a more precise analysis of the future of U.S. policies toward the Islamic Republic of Iran and aid in improving decision-making processes.

Keywords

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References

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American Strategic Studies
Volume 4, Issue 1 - Serial Number 13
Serial number 13 - Spring 2024
November 2024
Pages 77-112

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History

  • Receive Date: 03 March 2024
  • Revise Date: 23 November 2024
  • Accept Date: 24 November 2024
  • Publish Date: 25 November 2024

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