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PhD Student in Political Science, University of Tehran
Abstract
The emergence and proliferation of Takfiri and terrorist groups, particularly in Syria such as ISIS and Jabhat al-Nusra (which later renamed itself to Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham), has created complex challenges for US foreign policy. This research aims to critically analyze the United States' approach toward these groups from the perspective of "smart power" theory, examining Washington's contradictory policies regarding these organizations. The research methodology is historical-analytical with a critical approach, using library resources to examine developments in US foreign policy from 2013 to 2024. Historical background analysis revealed that in the 1980s, the US, by supporting Arabs and Afghans, facilitated the formation of extremist groups such as Al-Qaeda, which later became threats to American interests. Accordingly, the findings confirmed that the United States has constantly sought to manage and utilize these groups by employing hard power instruments (military operations, providing weapons, and economic sanctions) and soft power tools (public diplomacy, diplomatic engagement, and humanitarian aid). The evolution in Washington's approach toward Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham and its removal from the list of terrorist organizations in 2024 exemplifies the flexibility of US policy in securing its regional interests. The research concludes that America's smart power policy toward Takfiri groups, with emphasis on Syria, despite obvious contradictions, serves the country's strategic objectives in West Asia.
Akbarpour Almeh joghi, A., & salehi vasigh, M. R. (2025). Analysis of U.S. Policy Toward Takfiri Groups in West Asia with Focus on Syria (2013-2024): A Smart Power Approach. American Strategic Studies, (), -.
MLA
Ali Akbarpour Almeh joghi; mohammad reza salehi vasigh. "Analysis of U.S. Policy Toward Takfiri Groups in West Asia with Focus on Syria (2013-2024): A Smart Power Approach", American Strategic Studies, , , 2025, -.
HARVARD
Akbarpour Almeh joghi, A., salehi vasigh, M. R. (2025). 'Analysis of U.S. Policy Toward Takfiri Groups in West Asia with Focus on Syria (2013-2024): A Smart Power Approach', American Strategic Studies, (), pp. -.
VANCOUVER
Akbarpour Almeh joghi, A., salehi vasigh, M. R. Analysis of U.S. Policy Toward Takfiri Groups in West Asia with Focus on Syria (2013-2024): A Smart Power Approach. American Strategic Studies, 2025; (): -.
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